The Bridegroom Cometh
The parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity of being prepared for the coming of Jesus Christ. In the parable, the virgins represent us, the church, awaiting the return of Christ, the bridegroom. The oil in their lamps symbolises the infilling of the Holy Spirit. This story illustrates the unforeseen arrival of the bridegroom and the tragic fate of those unprepared — a stark warning that should ignite a fervent desire within us to be ready at any moment.
Reflecting on my journey, the years spent in the corporate world, and the countless nights away from home, I encountered an analogy that resonates deeply with our spiritual preparedness. The frequent fire alarms in hotels, initially met with urgency but gradually treated with nonchalance, mirror the complacency that can creep into our spiritual lives. We've heard the warnings, the prophecies, and the signs of His coming, yet, have we become too accustomed, too comfortable, ignoring the urgency of His return?
Let this be a challenge us to examine our lives, our priorities, and our love. The scriptures call us to a life of diligence, making our calling and election sure, emphasising that mere association with Christianity, or a nominal claim to faith, is insufficient. It's a heartfelt, relentless pursuit of salvation and preparedness for His return that counts.
We live in an age marked by grace and mercy, as described in Psalm 103:8-12, yet this period is finite. The signs around us, from societal changes to technological advancements, from political shifts to spiritual awakenings, all point to the nearing of the end times. These signs are not to incite fear but to awaken a sense of urgency and readiness for the return of our Lord.
The analogy of the ten virgins is not just a cautionary tale but a call to action. The oil — our personal, intimate relationship with God through the Holy Spirit — cannot be borrowed or acquired in a moment of need. It's a result of a consistent, devoted life of seeking Him, of being filled with His Spirit, ensuring that when the call goes forth, "The Bridegroom cometh," we are ready to meet Him.
As we navigate the complexities of this life, let's not lose sight of what truly matters. The trappings of this world, its pleasures, and achievements, pale in comparison to the eternal joy of being with our Lord. The signs are clear, the prophecies unfolding — we are living in the season of His return. May we heed the call to be ready, to live lives of holiness and godliness, ensuring our lamps are filled with oil, eagerly awaiting the bridegroom's return.
This life is indeed a dress rehearsal for eternity. Let's not be caught unprepared.