Reflection for October 25

The Prayer for Illumination had the words: “Give us fresh ears to hear these parables so we may gain understanding and act in your way, not our own.” As believers, we need to be ready for the day Jesus comes. This preparation is essential for eternity. John 14 suggests that those who are ready will be welcomed to be with God. This week’s parable was about the ten virgins. There were five wise virgins who brought their lamps and oil for the lamps. There were five foolish virgins who had lamps but did not have oil for them. The aim of this parable is to be ready for the groom’s arrival and enter the wedding celebration. All of the virgins fell asleep while waiting for the groom. They were awakened by the announcement that the bridegroom was arriving soon. The foolish virgins had to quickly find oil. By time they found some oil, it was too late to get into the wedding since the door was shut. They paid the price for being unprepared. Some people aren’t ready for Jesus, and some are preparing in advance. We cannot borrow someone else’s faith, therefore being ready for God’s kingdom is something each of us must do personally. The oil symbolizes a genuine, living relationship with Christ. We don’t know when this day will come so we need to prepare. This internal preparation provides the light we need to see our way, offering safety and protection as we wait. Keep your lamp burning, fix your heart on Christ--the Bridegroom is on His way. Reflections from Deborah Kelly. Share your reflections with deborah@rbcommunity.org and let me know your thoughts.