This Sunday, we will be looking at Matthew 25:1-13,

the parable of the Ten Virgins.

Jesus used this, the third parable, to illustrate and help us understand the events of His coming judgment and the importance of our being ready. Perhaps the disciples were in denial, or maybe they were stunned that Jesus was talking about His second coming because they did not realize His first was almost over! He wanted them to understand that when He leaves, they should not waste their time in doing nothing, in being depressed, or to give up while waiting. He wanted them to know it was still a "go" for doing life! He wanted them to get on with life, to be busy preparing themselves and others for the Kingdom, and yet, to remain watchful.

To obey Christ, we must keep our minds on Him. Oswald Chambers wrote, “We pray for a feeling, and God asks for our obedience.”

Obeying is faithfulness; it is not about education, intelligence, skill, or feeling.

Instead, it is accepting the task He gives us and doing it.

It is taking what He has given and using it for the benefit of others as well as for our growth and His glory (1 Cor. 4:2).

Five wise virgins knew this; five neglected it.

Never worry what others are doing; only seek what you can do!

To be ready is to be prepared and being prepared is to live by faith and to have our confidence in Him.