Our Lord told this story to foretell the events at His coming again.

The Background – Unlike our weddings in the west, weddings in the east mostly take place at night.

The Preparations – Apart from lamps with oil, elaborate steps in preparation would be made to be acceptable to accompany the Bridegroom. In their traditional ceremonies, The Bridegroom, unlike our weddings, is the very important figure. The best of everything, according to their custom, is prepared.

The Day/Night – of the Bridegroom’s procession comes. Heralded by music, drums and cymbals; large brass trays of sweetmeats being distributed to the crowds on the route; and much more; all heralding the Bridegroom’s arrival. Those taking part needed to be listening intently to the distant…coming nearer, sound of the coming procession. Shouts of joy from the admirers of the Bridegroom, folk turning out to meet him.

So Jesus relates the parable of the ten bridesmaids – ten in all – five alert with lights. The lapse of time led to dozing to sleep, lack of alertness on the part of all. Then the herald, “The Bridegroom is coming – go to meet him”. All rose to prepare. Half had lamps prepared and ready. Five trying to borrow oil from the others, but having to go and buy oil for themselves. Meanwhile the other prepared and ready maids, with lamps trimmed and brightly burning – ready to light the way to go to the reception with the Bridegroom. What a glad day for them! The other five returned when the door was shut, and they were not even recognised.

Going into 2012…I believe the message of this parable Jesus told is very clear for us. Let us be prepared, lights brightly shining for “soon, oh very soon, we are going to see the King. Hallelujah”.

PRAYER: Holy Spirit, help us to be our best so we are ready when Jesus comes. Amen.