Shining Light

Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. [Matthew 25:1-2 KJV]

All ten of these virgins were ready to celebrate, to party. There was going to be a great time and they were going to be part of it. There was only one small difference between the two groups.

And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. [Matthew 25:2-5 KJV]

Both groups waited, patiently. Both groups believed the bridegroom would be coming, there’s no thought expressed of doubt. And, he did!

And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. [Matthew 25:6-9 KJV]

Why did the foolish expect the wise to share? Doesn’t the Bible expressly state that we should share what we have with less fortunate?

Ah, there’s the point – these were not less fortunate, just less prepared. They were found wanting when the bridegroom arrived. They had expected him earlier and were not prepared for his timing.

And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. [Matthew 25:10-12 KJV]

Excluded. They were excluded from the wedding party. The doors were closed to them, forever. Not by the bridegroom’s planning, but by their own lack. The time had come, and gone, without them.

Are we ready? Looking for the Lord’s return for His bride, the church? We’ve had the same notice that the lamp carriers had – the bridegroom is coming. We all want to be part of the celebration. Are we prepared?

Are our lamps trimmed, with oil enough to do as He requested:

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. [Matthew 5:16 KJV]

What did you do yesterday to fulfill this verse? What will you do today? Tomorrow?

Are you telling of the bridegroom’s arrival by letting your light shine?