In Matthew’s gospel, Jesus tells the story of the ten virgins, or bridesmaids, who went with their lamps to meet the bridegroom. Five wise ones brought oil for their lamps and five foolish ones who did not and ran out of oil. The message of the parable is simply to be prepared.
At the time the Gospel according to Matthew was written, people believed the second coming and end of time to be imminent. They prepared for Jesus’ return. It is understandable that after 2000 years of waiting, we may at times no longer think that the end of time is at hand. Instead, we think that we have plenty of time. But as the Gospel tells us, we know neither the day nor the hour when our time ends.
Imagine yourself standing at the end of your life and looking back to today. What would your future self would want to change in you before you come face-to-face with God? Is there something in your life that you know you need to change but think you have time to do it later? Do you spend time with God every day or does God get pushed aside in favor of things you put ahead of Him? Is there someone you know you need to forgive but haven’t gotten around to doing it yet? Is there something you want to commit to doing but never got started? We know neither the day nor the hour when our time ends.
How about friends and family you care most about? Is there someone that comes to mind and you feel that you need to tell them you love them? Someone you need to thank? Someone you need to ask for their forgiveness? Don’t wait for you know neither the day nor the hour when our times ends.
Imagine how much happier and more complete your life will be knowing that you are prepared. You’ve done everything you wanted to have done and lived up to God’s calling for you. This reading tells us to desire and seek the gift of wisdom. Prayerfully ask God for wisdom and to show you what it is you need to do and what you need to let go of.
Prepare to meet God face-to-face.
Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women and blessed
is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at
the hour of our death. Amen.
Go in Peace to Love and Serve the Lord.
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