Thursday after the First Sunday of End Time, 11/9/00

Matthew 25:10-13 "But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. Later the others also came. 'Sir! Sir!' they said. 'Open the door for us!' But he replied, 'I tell you the truth, I don't know you.' Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour. --NIV

In the name of the One Who is the Bridegroom, amen.

Christ Jesus told us to keep watch, that is remain ready, for the day when He would return. We are too keep watch and make sure that our faith remains strong. But the conversation of the world takes attention. There are so many interesting things for us to spend time on. There is so much to do. When we are small we have the latest games to play. Then we enter school and there is so much homework that we just don't have time to read God's word. And there are the other school-related activities. There are sports events that we must compete in. Who has time to pay attention to the oil of faith? Later we begin to date. Then there is work. Then we have children and we have to be involved in their homework and athletics. Maybe later in life we will have more time. Then we will read God's word. Then we will attend Bible class. Then we will go to Church more frequently. But the end comes quickly. If our life on earth doesn't end because Christ Jesus returns, it ends because of a heart attack, stroke, car accident, or something else.

Our Savior said to keep watch. He didn't tell us to worry about our homework, career, or how well we do in the big game, He told us to watch for His return. And so we search the scriptures. We confess our sins daily and fill our lamps with forgiveness. We strengthen our faith with Jesus' body and blood so that when the cry goes out, "He's here!" we are prepared to meet Him. May the Holy Spirit keep you prepared at all times. Amen.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, there are so many things on this earth that grab for our attention. Keep us from letting the things of this world interfere in our preparation for eternal life. Above all, O Lord, keep us from a sudden or evil death. We ask this to the glory of Your holy name, amen.

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