In the Gospel reading today from Matthew 25, we hear Jesus giving the disciples a message. The message echoes the old Boy Scout motto: Be Prepared! Jesus tells a story of ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. He was delayed. Five of the virgins brought extra oil for their lamps. Five didn’t, so they asked the five wise virgins to share. They would not, lest they all run out. So the five unwise virgins were late, and locked out of the wedding feast.
The Gospel reading today ends with Jesus saying, “Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”
This always reminds me of the question: If you knew you were going to die in 30 days, what would you do? Chances are you would prepare yourself for the inevitable. Get right with God. Spend time with your family. Mend relationships. Tell the people you love you love them. Which begs the next question: Why wait? You never know if today could be your last one on earth. After all, if we leave the earth unprepared…well, read today’s Gospel to find out how that could end for you.
Father, give us the grace to always be prepared to meet you face to face. May we take care of the things we need to, that we will experience eternal joy with you. Amen.
0 comments