A Joyful Reunion

"The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. But only five of them were wise enough to fill their lamps with oil, while the other five were foolish and forgot.

"So, when the bridegroom was delayed, they lay down to rest until midnight, when they were roused by the shout, 'The bridegroom is coming! Come out and welcome him!'

"All the girls jumped up and trimmed their lamps. Then the five who hadn't any oil begged the others to share with them, for their lamps were going out.

"But the others replied. 'We haven't enough. Go instead to the shops and buy some for yourselves.'

"But while they were gone, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked.

"Later, when the other five returned, they stood outside, calling, 'Sir, open the door for us!'

"But he called back. 'Go away! It is too late!

"So stay awake and be prepared, for you do not know the date or moment of my return."

Matthew 25:1-13 (TLB)

"He who has said all these things declares: Yes, I am coming soon!" Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!

Revelation 22:20 (TLB)

Ravina Prabodh Diarsa, from Gujarat, India, was excited when her daughter who lives in Canada informed the family she planned to visit them in India. They were particularly eager to see their 20-month-old grandson, Jonathan. They began to make extensive preparations for Jonathan as Indian climate, culture, and food are quite different than Canada's.

Their time as a family was unforgettably enjoyable. The joy of their reunion reminded Ravina of another great reunion, the second coming of the Prince of Peace. Jesus tells us, "I go to prepare a place for you" and "I will return and take you to be with me so that where I am you will be too" (John 14:2,3).

But unlike Ravina daughter's visit, we have no idea when Jesus will come again. It will be wise for us to be prepared like the ten virgins who were ready when their bridegroom came at midnight. Until the Prince of Peace returns, let us wait patiently and expectantly.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help us always to remember that we are strangers on this earth (see Heb.11;13). Teach us to remain faithful as we wait for Jesus to return. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.