Luke 12:38

38 And whether it be in the second watch or in the third that He comes and finds them so, blessed are they.

Luke 12:38 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 12:38

And if he shall come in the second watch
Of the night, that is, after nine o'clock, or any time between nine or twelve; for the second watch was from nine o'clock till twelve; and this was coming early from an entertainment, or a wedding, which were commonly kept in the night, and late;

or come in the third watch,
or after twelve o'clock, or any time between twelve and three; for the third watch was from twelve o'clock to three, which was late; (See Gill on Matthew 14:25) The Persic version reads, "in the second, or third part of the night"; and the Ethiopic version, "in the second or third hour of the night";

and find them so.
The Arabic version adds, "doing"; as above described, with their loins girt, lights burning, and they watching for their Lord's coming:

blessed are those servants;
since they shall be used and treated as before related.

Luke 12:38 In-Context

36 and be yourselves like men waiting for their master--on the look-out till he shall return from the wedding feast--that, when he comes and knocks, they may open the door instantly.

37 Blessed are those servants, whom their Master when He comes shall find on the watch. I tell you in solemn truth, that He will tie an apron round Him, and will bid them recline at table while He comes and waits on them.

38 And whether it be in the second watch or in the third that He comes and finds them so, blessed are they.

39 Of this be sure, that if the master of the house had known what time the robber was coming, he would have kept awake and not have allowed his house to be broken into.

40 Be you also ready, for at an hour when you are not expecting Him the Son of Man will come."