Homily for Tuesday of the 29th Week in Ordinary Time

Jesus startles His listeners with the image of the master of a household putting on an apron, inviting his servants to sit down at the table, and then waiting on them. The scene would be bizarre, entirely in opposition to the standard social practice of His times. However, it does call to mind Jesus washing the feet of His Apostles. Jesus combines the roles of master and servant most unconventionally; typically, they are separate and distinct.

The master performs this gesture of honor to his servants in response to their faithful vigilance. The LORD who supports us expects us to be loyal and alert so that we are ready to open the door to Him at whatever moment He arrives.

In the Book of Revelation, the Risen LORD says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.” Jesus is always knocking at our door. If we welcome His daily coming, He will serve and support us in endless ways.