January 31

“And while they were going away to make the purchase, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut. And later the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us.’ But he answered and said, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’ Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour.” Matthew 25:10-13.

We all know this story of the ten virgins. Some were prepared and had an adequate supply of oil. Others had some oil, but not enough. The foolish ones without enough oil thought that there was time to buy more—even after they had heard that the bridegroom was on his way! This is the way of the world—especially our modern-day world. Instant gratification always seems to be available.

But is it? The oil that is needed is representative of the Holy Spirit. Some of the virgins had a relationship with our Lord, while others only had a token knowledge of what was involved. The latter ones were performing a ‘religious’ act—relying on what appeared to be just a simple matter of doing what seemed right, but Christianity calls for a faith that will take us far beyond what we alone are able to do. They had shown up to observe the wedding without any faith in the Lord. Sadly, it would seem that attitude describes many of us in our churches today.

Dear Father, fill me with Your oil today. I want to be present for the great wedding that is to occur. Do not let me rely on worldly motives or religious acts to satisfy You. I know that You ask for our faith placed in Jesus. That is the key. As a result Your Holy Spirit will provide all that I need. My light will never go out, for it is indeed Your light. Amen.
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