Scripture
“You too must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.”

Observation
Jesus tells a story of ten bridesmaids waiting for the arrival of the bridegroom. Five were prepared and took additional oil for their lamps but the other five did not take enough oil. The lamps of the foolish five started to run out and they were forced to go and buy some more.

It was while they were gone that the bridegroom came and the five sensible bridesmaids went off with the groom to the wedding feast. When the others returned they were locked out of the feast.

Application
Jesus tells this story to make the point that we need to be ready for His return. Nobody knows when this will be so we must be always prepared.

We might have all sorts of reasons for thinking that the time for Jesus' return is still well off. The fact is that any of us could die at any time- a car accident, an undiagnosed disease, a venomous snake hiding under our office desk, a literal “bolt from the blue.”

The old question, “Are you ready to meet your Maker?” is relevant to all of us every day.

The only way to ensure that we are ready is to put our lives right with God, asking for His forgiveness through the sacrifice of Jesus.

Prayer
Father I don't know the hour or the day when I will leave this life. Help me to always live as your faithful son. Amen.