Ready or Not

This is the time of year when people start asking if we're ready for Christmas (no!). But what does it mean to be ready for Christ?

1 "Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this..." (Matt. 25:1)

In Matthew 25, Jesus tells the story of the 10 virgins who are waiting for a delayed bridegroom. Five of them had brought oil so they could light their torches to lead the wedding procession, and five brought no oil. All of them fell asleep when the wait was longer than expected. But, at midnight there was a shout that the bridegroom was approaching, and those who had oil refused to share because there would not be enough to keep the torches lit. The unprepared, then went to buy the oil they needed, but returned too late. The festivities were already underway and they were denied entry.

This story is one of a series of parables Jesus told the disciples about the preparedness of those considered to be people of faith, in response to their questions about the "end of the age" and Jesus' return. Here, the virgins represent the people of faith, and the oil is salvation which each must have for themselves - this gift is not transferable. At the start, all seem to be on equal footing, but when the bridegroom (Jesus) comes, it becomes obvious that everyone is not ready for his arrival.

Throughout the pages of the Old and New Testaments, God has been calling God's people to be steadfastly faithful.

15 Now if you are unwilling to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." (Joshua 24:15)

So, are you ready?