The NIV doesn't do service to the beginning of this verse as Luke paints a picture for his readers. The robe that was generally worn was long and loose, to give its wearer ease in walking, but if they needed to be in a hurry … late in the evening, it would be ‘girded up,’ or belted so that it wouldn't trip a person. The person would also carry a lamp, so as to be unimpeded as they ensured preparations were made for the return of the Master. Even if the Master is delayed, the servant does not give in to exhaustion, he remains prepared to open the door with just a single knock.
This is reminiscent of Jesus words in Revelation 3:20: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
One knock is all it should take … we must be ready.
The amazing thing, though, is that while the servants have ensured the Master’s home is ready, and they are waiting for him, what he does for them is walk in the door and begin serving. He invites them to recline at the table and makes sure they are fed and cared for.
In the parable just preceding this, Jesus had spoken directly to his disciples after having addressed the crowd. Peter asks at this point who Jesus is speaking to. The crowd … the large group of unbelievers are not going to understand being prepared. These words are not addressed to them. It is the leadership of those who believe that must prepare. They must always be ready.
We must always be ready.
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