Some of the earliest Christians expected Jesus to return in judgment within their lifetimes. Matthew’s Gospel was written as the generation of those who had seen and heard Jesus was dying off. By that time, the community had become more relaxed about the second coming. This parable of Jesus was presented as a wake-up call.
How often do we expect or assume that others will take care of something that is our responsibility? The “foolish” virgins did not take care of their lamps and were not ready when the bridegroom arrived. We, too, must be ready when the time comes or face the consequences.
It seems harsh that the “wise” virgins refused to share their oil. However, had they shared the oil, all of the lamps would have burned out faster. Then they all would have been left in the dark.
There are some things that other people just cannot do for you; each of us is responsible for his or her own faith.
This parable reminds us that there is no time like the present to check the condition of our lamps.
In what part of your life is the oil running low? How can you rekindle your relationship with God?
Adapted from Word on the Go, a downloadable resource from RENEW International
