Jesus gives us one final example as He concludes His response to the question the disciples asked Him in Mark 13:4. We've taken six weeks now to study His response and apply it to our lives.
Now Jesus concludes with this: "Do not let Him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: Watch!" (Mark 13:36-37).
Jesus describes His return as being like a man leaving his house and putting his servants in charge of specific tasks, and a man at the door to keep watch for His return (Mark 13:34).
Jesus would soon leave His disciples after teaching them for three years. Jesus had prepared them for His eventual departure, but nothing could have prepared them for what was about to happen. In the remaining weeks of our study, we'll follow the series of events leading up to that day, and we'll see the disciples first scatter in fear, then return to be commissioned to the work that has been carried on to this day.
In this last example (or parable), Jesus is the man who leaves his house. His disciples are the servants (all Christians by extension) who he puts in charge of his affairs and assigns tasks until he returns. One is posted at the door to watch for his masters' return (Mark 13:34). We, as Christians, are the servants. Our task is to strive for righteousness and to be an example of God's love to others.
Are you performing your assigned task? Only prayerful study of the Bible will point you toward righteousness. Otherwise, you'll likely be found sleeping (Mark 13:36).