Be Prepared

Be Prepared

When I was a kid, I was in Boy Scouts. Their motto is “Be Prepared.” As I read the first of two parables in today’s readings, that was the thought that came to my mind. 

Five of the virgins were foolish and therefore unprepared for what was to come. They likely thought the bridegroom would come quickly and they did not want to be burdened with carrying the extra oil. As we read the conclusion of that parable, we learn that their desire to be comfortable over prepared did not work in their favor. 

Since this is a parable, we need to extract the actual meaning of what Jesus is teaching. He is teaching us to be ready for His return. We do that by first accepting what He did on the cross as the forgiveness of our sin. We then allow this decision to be manifested through our actions of love and service to Him and people. Our love is proven by our obedience to His commands. 

Walking with Christ well means being intentional. It means being prepared. Here’s today’s Bible verse. Enjoy. 

Matthew 25:1-4

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps.”

Today’s Readings:

Matthew 25:1-30; Proverbs 8:1-11