King James Bible
"And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants."
Jesus refers to the Roman night watch system (9pm-midnight and midnight-3am), emphasizing the unpredictability of the master's return. The late hours suggest inconvenience and test the servants' commitment to remain vigilant when fatigue would naturally set in. This phrase points back to the previous verse's description of servants waiting with loins girded and lamps burning—ready for immediate service. The master discovers them maintaining their state of preparedness despite the late hour. Jesus pronounces divine favor on servants who demonstrate faithful watchfulness regardless of timing. This beatitude rewards persistent readiness over mere initial enthusiasm, highlighting that true discipleship endures uncertainty.