These times ring with a spiritual urgency. We all know that Jesus is near, even at the door! In fact, He gave us a parable for this very moment...
“The kingdom of Heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet their Bridegroom. Five were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps they took no oil with them, but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the Bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a cry- “Here is the Bridegroom! Go out to meet Him.” Then all those virgins rose up 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 said there was only enough for their own lamps and to go buy some. While they were away buying oil, the Bridegroom came. Those that were ready went in with Him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. Afterwards the other virgins came and asked Him to open the door, but He stated He didn’t know them. Watch therefore, for you know neither the day or hour of His coming.”- (Matthew 25:1-13)
The readiness of our souls is the focus here. Are we looking for Him or busy with the temporary demands and thrills of each day? Are our lives filled with the fragrance, light, and love of the Holy Spirit (the oil)? This is the key to keeping our faith fresh and looking upward, rather than discouraged and cynical.
The interesting thing is that we are told to be looking for Him, but He also will be looking to find His own - ready, watching, and filled with faith. Dear ones, the best way to be ready is to be living watchfully, with our hearts nurtured well in the Word of God, building our faith each day. Soon He will arrive.
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