Key verse: 13

Jesus told a parable to teach them to always be ready for the coming of the Son of Man. In the parable, there were ten virgins waiting for the bridegroom to arrive. Five were foolish because they didn’t bring oil for their lanterns, thinking the bridegroom would arrive soon. The other five were wise. They brought oil for their lamps because they didn’t know when the bridegroom would arrive. In fact, the bridegroom was a long time in coming. When he arrived, it was dark, and all ten virgins were sleeping.

Finally, someone called out, “Here is the bridegroom!” The ten virgins went to trim the wicks of their lanterns, but the five foolish women couldn’t because they didn’t have enough oil. The five wise virgins didn’t share theirs because they wanted to make sure they had enough. While the foolish virgins were buying oil, the bridegroom arrived. The five foolish virgins came late, and were told they couldn’t come in because, “I don’t know you.” Jesus teaches in this parable that his people need to be wise. They should watch and wait, because he could come at any time. We may think his coming is a long way away, and maybe it will be. But it might not. Whenever he comes, he wants to find us watching and waiting for his return.

Prayer: Father, Jesus is coming again! Help me to keep watch and prepare my heart to welcome you.

One Word: Keep watch!