Ready to Go?

Ready to Go?

Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.

Matthew 24:42

In biblical days, the bridegroom would travel in a procession to the home of his bride-to-be. The bride's family and friends would maintain a vigil, watching for the groom's arrival, so as to meet him with appropriate fanfare and welcome. Jesus used this very custom as the basis for a parable that carries a sober warning to all.

In the parable (Matthew 25:1-13), ten virgins (think bridesmaids) were waiting with the family for the groom. When the groom was seen coming from afar at night, only five of the virgins had lamps with sufficient oil to go out and light the way for his arrival. The other five virgins had to go to buy oil, and when they returned, the door to the celebration was closed and they were shut out. Jesus' point was, "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming" (Matthew 25:13). The Son of Man is coming for His Church at the Rapture -- those not prepared will be left out of the celebration.

Preparation means two things: Placing one's faith in Christ, and then living faithfully each day in anticipation of His return -- which could be today! "Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20)

How many Christians live their lives packed up and ready to go?

J. I. Packer