“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, 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. At midnight the cry rang out: Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed
their lamps. The foolish ones said to
the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ ‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough
for both us and you. Instead, go to
those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they were on their way to buy the
oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins
who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. Later the others also came. ‘Sir!
Sir!’ they said. ‘Open the door
for us!’ But he replied, ‘I tell you the
truth, I don’t know you.’ Therefore keep
watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matthew 25:1-13)
This story is told by Jesus to encourage His
followers not to grow lax as we await His return. It’s been 2,000 years! It’s hard to keep thinking that He really is
coming back when life has gone on as normal for so long.
But the promise of the Lord will prove true
and He will return. He delays for only
one reason, His patience with people, His desire to see as many saved as
possible. “The Lord is not slow in
keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to
perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
But the day of the Lord will come like a thief.” (2 Peter 3:9-10)
So, stay alert and ready. Watch for His coming and be prepared for it
at any time. Every morning, awake with
this thought: It could be today!
His, by Grace,
Steve
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