Be Vigilant and Be Diligent - Conclusion of Be Vigilant,, as the Five Virgins Were

The other five-those whom Jesus called discreet-also went out with lighted lamps, expecting the groom's  arrival. Thy had to wait too, but they were discreet."   The Greek word translated "discreet" can convey the sense of being "prudent, sensible, practically wise." These five proved that they were discreet by bringing receptacles with extra oil to refill their lamps if necessary.  In fact, they were so focused on being ready for the groom that hey would not give away their oil. Such vigilance was not misplaced, as is proved by their being present and completely prepared when the groom arrived.  These  who "were ready went in with him to the marriage feast; and the door was shut. 

Jesus was not offering a lesson in wedding decorum, nor was he giving counsel about sharing.  His point was: "Keep on the watch, therefore, because you know neither the day or the hour."  Ask yourself,  'Am I truly vigilant with regard to Jesus presence?'  We believe that Jesus now reigns in heaven, but how focused are we on the reality that 'the Son of Man will soon come on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory? (Matthew 24:30)  By "the middle of the night," the groom's arrival certainly was closer than when the virgins first went out to meet him.  Similarly, the Son of man's arrival  to destroy the present system  is closer than when we began looking forward to his coming. (Romans 13:11-14) Have we maintained our vigilance, being even  more vigilant as that time draws closer?

To obey the command "keep on the watch" requires constant vigilance.  Five virgins let their oil run out and went to buy more.  A Christian today might similarly be distracted  so that he is not fully prepared for Jesus' imminent arrival. It happened to some first-century Christians. It can happen to some today.  So let us ask ourselves, 'Is it happening to me?" - 1 THESSALONIANS 5:6-8; HEBREWS 2:2; 3:12' 12:3; REVELATION 16:15.

Next time: Be Vigilant and Be Diligent - Be Diligent as the End Nears

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