2 John 4-9 / Luke 17:26-37
The "stand-by" state in electrical and electronic equipment like tv sets and dvd players and computers is interesting.
In that state, when the equipment is activated, it immediately jumps to its full operational capabilities without having to go through the start up process and other delays.
But it is also a state in which it uses a considerable amount of energy as compared when it is totally shut down.
For most of us, life is generally busy, but it is usually busy with monotony.
In other words, we are usually busy with the same stuff - work, chores, assignments, appointments.
After a while, we might just enter a shut-down state as in that we might just exist for function but may not have motivation.
Like Jesus said in the gospel, we just slide into the monotony of eating and drinking, buying and selling, and we shut down to life and meaning.
Yet the 1st reading reminds us to watch ourselves because there are many deceivers in the world.
Hence, we must stand firm in faith and stand-by with truth in our hearts, and prepare to witness to the truth. All the time!