Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 12:38

"And if he shall come in the second watch, and if in the third, and find [them] so blessed are those [servants]." — Luke 12:38 (ASV)

In Jesus’ time, a person “dressed ready for service” tucked his flowing outer robe under his belt or sash. This was done to prepare for travel, fighting (Ephesians 6:14), or work (cf. 1 Peter 1:13).

Jesus pictures servants waiting for their masters with burning lamps (cf. Matthew 25:1–13). When the master does arrive, there is a striking reversal of roles as he dresses himself to serve and waits on the servants (but cf. also 17:7–10 and comments). If the return is late in the night or toward morning, the alertness of the servants is even more commendable.