Jesus uses some sharply pointed words in Matthew’s 24th chapter, challenging his hearers to “stay awake.” It’s a warning to be on guard, stay ready and remain alert. “At an hour you don’t expect, the Son of Man will come.” How best to characterize the tone and flavor of this watchfulness? What is the sense of urgency coming through these words?

One might read this readiness as the kind ridden with anxiety, worry and even panic. Missing its insistence, punishment and exclusion are sure to follow. Threat rings through the voice of the speaker

From what we know of Jesus’ character, it’s clear that a readiness in such harsh tones is not the kind he intends. Rather than a brittle and edgy vigilance, he’s proclaiming a trusting receptiveness to his presence and to the gentle care of his Spirit.

An insight into the kind of watchfulness can come from notion of discernment. This is to become more adept at distinguishing which interior movements and impulses arise from God, and which find their roots elsewhere.

The tenor of such readiness is a prayer-filled receptivity, a sensitized listening. It refers to discerning which inner impulses do and do not come from God and so better able to recognize Spirit-inspired experiences.  This readiness is not so much an anxious one as it is a heightened alertness to God’s presence

A further sharpening of discernment comes through the kinds of activities the discerner engages in while “staying awake.” Service to the neighbor, generosity to the poor and needy, stances taken against oppression, regular periods of prayer –- these and more heighten the kind of readiness Jesus is proclaiming.

This “stay awake” is less a threat than it is an inviting challenge. Its kind of alertness is a prod to closer familiarity with the ways of the Kingdom Jesus is proclaiming.

Throughout his life, Vincent highlighted right discernment. In a letter written late in his life, he refers to it as divine guidance.

I hope both you and them will adore the guidance of God in this unexpected change and that it will find prompt and loving acceptance in your hearts. (Volume: 5 | Page#: 458) To Jean Martin, 22 October, 1655 added on 6/28/2011