Why aren’t we living the way God calls us to live especially in light of His Kingdom and return?
Reflecting on Matthew 24:42–51 and Matthew 25:1–13, Jesus speaks deeply about the Kingdom of Heaven. In chapter 24, He warns us about His return and the signs of the end times. Then, in chapter 25, He shares three parables each carrying a vital message. Today, let’s focus on the first one: the parable of the ten bridesmaids who took their lamps to meet the bridegroom.
Let me share a story to help paint the picture.
A friend of mine had long dreamed of moving to the U.S. She faced many setbacks, but eventually, she got her visa. Even though she had to wait six months before traveling, her mindset completely shifted. Her daily life changed. She was researching where she would live, learning about the area, checking the weather her focus was clear: prepare for what was ahead.
Similarly, when I got my visa in June, I had to be in the U.S. by the end of October. I used those few months to prepare spending time with family, letting go of some responsibilities, and getting ready for the journey.
Now, let’s turn the mirror on ourselves. As Christians, we have already received the visa our salvation through Christ. But the question is: Are we living as people who are preparing to meet our King? Unlike my friend and I, who knew our travel date, we don’t know when Christ will return.
Matthew 24:36 says:
“No one knows the day or hour, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows.”
That’s why Jesus warns us in Matthew 24:42:
“So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming.”
I believe the reason many of us are spiritually lazy or unprepared is because we don’t truly understand what God has done for us or what He’s calling us to. If we did, we wouldn’t live foolishly.
Think about it before moving to the U.S., I did my homework. I listened to stories, read articles, studied maps. I was informed and intentional. Likewise, if we want to be ready for God’s Kingdom, we need to know Him. And the way to know Him is through His Word. The Bible is like a spiritual search engine it’s free and always available.
If we don’t read His Word, spend time in prayer, or seek His presence, we won’t have the strength to be prepared. But when we walk with Him daily, we gain the wisdom to live as true followers of Christ.
In the parable of the ten bridesmaids, five were wise and took extra oil, while five were foolish and didn’t prepare. Life is like that. Many believe, but not everyone is ready. And when the bridegroom was delayed, they all fell asleep including the wise ones.
Matthew 25:5 says:
“When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep.”
But when the times comes out, only those who had extra oil those who had prepared were ready to meet Him. The rest missed the moment. When they returned, the door was already locked.
And Jesus said,
“Believe me, I don’t know you.” (Matthew 25:12)
So here’s the challenge: Let’s live prepared. Maybe we’ve grown complacent because we’ve lost sight of what we’re waiting for. Only His Word can renew that vision in us.
Let’s be like the wise bridesmaids. Let’s keep our lamps filled. Let’s stay watchful. Let’s get ready for the day we will meet our King.
Matthew 25:13 reminds us again:
“So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.”
Let’s live each day watching, waiting, and preparing.
Amen.
