Open-Handed Waiting

Luke 12:32-40

Jesus’ words in Luke 12 call us to fearless trust and ready hearts: “Do not be afraid… it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” We’re told to place our treasure in heaven, keep our lamps lit, and stay alert for the Master who may arrive at an unexpected hour.

Father Mark reflects on everyday impatience—like waiting in traffic or a grocery line—as a spiritual warning. “I want to be somewhere else” reveals two problems: it centers the ego apart from the needs of others and God’s will, and it pulls us out of the present moment where God’s gifts are actually given. When we’re not truly present, we miss Christ’s face in our neighbor and fail to live our baptismal vows.

He contrasts “tight-fisted waiting” (driven by fixed outcomes, wishes, and fear) with “open-handed waiting” (patient, alert, surrendered to God). Echoing Isaiah 40:31 and Henri Nouwen, he urges receptive waiting that trusts the Father’s joy to give the kingdom. The stunning promise of Jesus’ parable is that the Master will return and serve the servants—a foretaste of the Eucharistic banquet offered to those who wait with open hands and ready hearts.

Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.