A dutiful soldier in a watchtower carefully observes the territory before him. He looks out toward the horizon, seeking any sign of the enemy’s presence. As a soldier, stay actively aware of what is happening around you. Be prepared to be tempted by people, including those who may tempt you unintentionally, by their appearance, words, or actions. Likewise, be prepared to be tempted by things in the world you encounter with your senses.
Pay attention to what is happening within your soul. Watch for the influence of pride. Take control of your imagination quickly. Wisely expose deceptive thoughts by bringing your mind back to reality. Be careful that passions do not arise to catch you off guard. Maintain peace and sobriety. Catch tempting thoughts and feelings early, when they first appear. Internally look and listen sensitively like an alert guard dog.
Watch for temptations, but when you see them do not be seduced by them. When you give them consideration, you feed them, strengthening and emboldening them to invade and take you captive. Drive the harmful thoughts away immediately. Stop the demons by a strong defense. Do not yield.
Also, remain watchful for the end. We do not know when Christ shall return to earth in His Glory. Neither do we know when our end to this life arrives. Stay awake. Do not become drowsy and lazy (slothful), caught unprepared when the Master appears.
Exercise zealous vigilance. Always be watchful, mindful every moment of every day, so that when temptation approaches from any direction you are ready.
Read: 1 Corinthians 16.13-14; 1 Peter 5.8-11; Galatians 6.1; 1 Thessalonians 5.1-11; Matthew 25.1-13; 26.36-46; Luke 12.13-21, 35-40
Text copyright © 2017 by Fr. Symeon D. S. Kees