11/8/20

Our scripture this week is Matthew 25:1-13, today from the New King James Version (NKJV).

“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. “And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. “Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.

The parable of the bridesmaids is a lesson on being ready, but what does that mean to us as Christ’s followers? It teaches that we are to wait for His return, doing as He has taught us. This is patient waiting but also active waiting.

Jesus didn’t tell us “learn the lessons, then sit quietly over there”, He calls us to go into the world to make a difference! We are to share His story and His love with everyone, ensuring they hear God’s promise of salvation. Some of the bridesmaids are prepared and some are not, we are warned to be ready through their example.

Jesus has taught us the most important things are loving God and each other. By sharing what God has done in our lives, we help others make that connection and commitment. Keep the lamp of faith burning strong in your life, shine it on others that they too may live in God’s light.

Gracious God, help us to be the servants You call us to be, ready to share our story with the world that all may know the joy of a relationship with You. Amen.

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