Matthew 25:1-13 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 25:1-13 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 25"Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Verse 2Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. Verse 3When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; Verse 4but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. Verse 5As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. Verse 6But at midnight there was a shout, 'Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.' Verse 7Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. Verse 8The foolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' Verse 9But the wise replied, 'No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.' Verse 10And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Verse 11Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, 'Lord, lord, open to us.' Verse 12But he replied, 'Truly I tell you, I do not know you.' Verse 13Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.
Devotion
I am writing this devotion just after Labor Day. I noticed that when I asked most people about their summer, the word “busy” was usually noted in their response. Sometimes, in our quest for re-creation, we get distracted from what is most important. Sabbath rest is often omitted from the busy schedule. Frequently in our busyness we totally miss what is most important – Jesus Christ.
As you read this devotion, Advent is just around the corner! Again, we will get distracted by many things in our attempt to mark these holy days. The preparations for the season are fun and meaningful, but let us not get distracted away from why we do these things. How may we keep our lamps lit and burning to prepare for the babe of Bethlehem?
Prayer
Dear Lord, the demands of work, family, and finances can be overwhelming and worrying. For those who have journeyed through those early years, new joys and concerns now fill our time. Wherever we are on life’s journey, may we draw our strength and guidance from you. Amen.
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