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Matthew 25:1-5

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.”

In order to explain the kingdom of heaven (God’s rule in the hearts of His people), Jesus told the story about a wedding party. The bridesmaids were responsible to prepare the bride to meet the groom. The groom was late and darkness set in before he arrived.  Unfortunately, half of the bridesmaids were not prepared. They had not brought oil for their lamps and ended up missing the wedding banquet.

Jesus used this story to explain the need to be ready for His coming. Because Jesus has not returned yet, we may doubt He is coming back or lose our focus and perspective. Those who are not ready will miss the eternal wedding banquet.

Those who are ready have trusted in Jesus alone as the only way to have a relationship with the living God. They have accepted Jesus as the one who died for them on the cross to pay the penalty for their sins. Those who have trusted in Jesus will never have to worry about missing the eternal wedding feast.

Father, thank You for the promise of eternity. Thank You for the gift of Jesus. Help me live each day with the expectation of His return. Help me to keep watch and be ready. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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