In the parable of the ten bridesmaids, Jesus invites us to reflect on the importance of being prepared for the coming of the Lord. Five bridesmaids bring extra oil for their lamps, while the other five do not. When the bridegroom is delayed, all become tired and fall asleep. Yet, when the announcement comes that the bridegroom is approaching, only those who are prepared can enter the wedding feast. Jesus concludes with a clear invitation: “Stay awake, because you know neither the day nor the hour.”
Consequently, the great issue in this parable is the nature of time and how each of us should use it. We live in a culture that often avoids this question. The revealing expression “to kill time” suggests that time is something to be disposed of rather than a precious gift. As T.S. Eliot reminds us, “getting and spending, we lay waste our powers.” Our lives can become consumed by distraction, busyness and the endless pursuit of things that do not ultimately satisfy.
This does not mean that we should not enjoy ourselves. Christian faith is not a rejection of happiness, celebration or pleasure. Rather, genuine exuberance comes from the profoundly good news of the Resurrection. Our joy finds its deepest meaning in the knowledge that Christ has conquered death and invites us into eternal life. The lamps are lit, after all, for the wedding feast of the Lamb.
The wedding invitation is therefore a challenge to forego delayed gratification and to live fully – today and every day. We cannot postpone love, forgiveness, generosity or faithfulness until some imagined future. The oil in our lamps represents the readiness of hearts that continually choose God.
May we use our time wisely, not merely filling our days, but allowing them to become opportunities for love and service. May our lamps remain burning brightly, so that when Christ comes, we will be ready to enter the joy of his eternal feast.
Fr Stephen Berecz