The gardener of an Earl was observed diligently tidying and beautifying everything in the villa’s garden. The observer said in amazement: “You are working as if your master would be back tomorrow.” “No,” replied the gardener, “as if he was coming today!”

Whether this story is true or not has yet to be discovered. But this gardener gives us an excellent example of the attitude that should also characterize us. He had been given a job while his master was away, as he did not know when the Earl would return. So he worked diligently and carefully to prepare the garden satisfactorily.

The Lord has given us all tasks. They are the ones that we are also capable of. On the one hand, this speaks of His sovereignty and grace, but on the other hand, it also speaks of our responsibility. The Lord has given us a task to carry it out to His complete satisfaction, “with profit” (cf. Mt 25:14-30). Are we living up to this responsibility? Are we carrying out this task with diligence and care?

What kind of daily routine would our day have if we knew that the Lord would return in the evening or during the day? In any case, we would change our work behavior and set utterly new priorities!

The Lord says: “Behold, I am coming soon, and my reward with me, to repay each one according to his work” (Rev 22:12). It can still be today! Let us live each day more in expectation of His return!