Conclusion of Vigilant and Diligent During His Presence

An Israelite farmer who planted seed had to wait, first for the blade to appear, then for the plant to mature, and finally for the harvest.  (Luke 8:5-8; John 4:35)  Over those months, there was a time and perhaps cause for some anxiety.  Would the early rains come and be ample? What of the later rains? Might insects or a storm kill the plants? (Compare Joel 1:4; 2:23-25) Nonetheless, overall an Israelite farmer could trust Jehovah and the natural cycles he has set in place.  (Deuteronomy 11:14; Jeremiah 5:24)  The farmer's patience could really amount to confident expectation.  In faith he knew that what he was waiting for would come. It really would!

While a farmer might have some knowledge of when the harvest will be, first-century Christians could calculate when Jesus' presence would be. It was certain to come, though.  James wrote:  "The presence [Greek, pa-rou-si'a] has drawn close." At the time James penned those words, the large-scaled, or global sign of Christ's presence was not yet in evidence. But It is now! So how should we feel in this period? The sign is actually visible. We see it.  We can say with assurance, 'I see the sign being fulfilled.' We can confidently say, 'The presence of the Lord is here, and its climax is at hand'

Since that is the case, we have especially strong reason to take to heart and apply the fundamental lessons of Jesus' two parables that we have discussed. He said: "Keep on the watch, therefore, because you know neither the day nor the h0ur." (Matthew 25:13)  Now is unquestionably the time for us to be zealous in our Christian service.  Let us show daily in our lives that we understand Jesus' point. Let us be vigilant! Let us be diligent!

Next time: Will You "Keep on the Watch"? 

From the jw.org publications