Readiness For The Lord
Preaching
The Parables Of Jesus
Applications For Contemporary Life
"Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, 'Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.' Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise replied, 'No! There will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go back to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.' And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, 'Lord, lord, open to us.' But he replied, 'Truly I tell you, I do not know you.' Keep awake, therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour."
Theme
The motto of the Boy Scouts of America is "Be Prepared." Preparation is very important in every aspect of life. The better prepared we are the fewer problems we experience, and those that come our way are more easily solved. Preparation also leads to greater acceptance of the hand life deals to us. The more we can think now of future possibilities and prepare ourselves for them, the better able we will be to live and triumph over the pitfalls and struggles of life. Our ultimate preparation must be for the coming of the Lord. Jesus will come when we least expect him. Thus, we must be ready or we will be lost forever.
Spiritual Food For The Journey
Preparation is a constant challenge of life. One might rightly ask the question, "Are we ever truly prepared?" Our life of preparation begins at an early age. In our school days we are specifically preparing ourselves for the future, but each step in the education process is itself preparation for the next step. When we are in elementary school we learn the basics of "the three R's" so that we will be prepared for high school. In this secondary level we work hard and make the grades necessary to prepare ourselves for college or university level work. We might think that we can slack off in college but we realize quickly that the best jobs and placements in graduate school are secured by those who are best prepared.
School is only the beginning of a lifetime of preparation. We prepare through knowledge and experience in our first job for the higher paying and more prestigious position which is our goal. We prepare now our finances for the things we wish to do in the future -- vacation, investments, retirement. We formulate plans for our future relationships. Most people hope to find the right person for a lasting, fulfilling, and committed relationship.
Our life is one of constant preparation -- are we ever ready? Readiness for a task or event takes much time and preparation. One must be ready to make the sacrifices necessary to assure that the outcome we desire is achieved. Our readiness for God is the most vital of all preparations, for the end we desire will last for eternity. If we in our busy world can take the time to educate ourselves mentally and prepare ourselves physically for events and tasks that are finite, should we not reflect upon the need to make preparations now for the call of the Lord? Some tasks and events come at a prescribed time that makes planning and preparation rather simple. Those that come unannounced require a constant state of readiness. We need to prepare today for Jesus, for as Scripture says, we know not the day nor the hour.
Application Of The Parable To Contemporary Life
Sermon Openings
1. Miracles can happen in the most unusual places. One happened to me in the little town of Trinidad, Colorado, a village of 5,000 people, when everyone is home, in the southeast corner of the state. Trinidad normally serves as a way stop for travelers along I-25, a major north-south route in that part of the country. I was sent to Trinidad in the summer of 1985 to work in a state-run nursing home. There was nothing, I felt, that could possibly be learned from a town with one movie theater, no cultural events, a place where the Greyhound bus stops and departs twice per day. How wrong I could be!
When I arrived I was met by Sr. Mary Theophane, a 79-year-young Sister of Charity. She was to be my mentor during my time in Trinidad. She was a woman full of faith; she was full of energy as well. My first full day of work, Sr. Mary introduced me to all the principals I would need to know, both staff and residents, at the home. That was the day I first met Dr. Hall.
Dr. Hall had been a chiropractor in Trinidad for more than fifty years. Now in retirement, he was living in the home. Dr. Hall was dying, suffering greatly from the pain of bone cancer. I do not remember, if I ever knew, which religious denomination Dr. Hall claimed, but it was obvious to all that he was a Christian man. Dr. Hall lived his life in a state of preparation. He prepared for many different things in varied ways. The first thing for which he prepared was his day. When he felt good he would dress himself; this was his goal. Dr. Hall felt that one should dress properly. For him this meant a long-sleeve shirt, a tie, and a sports jacket. This goal was very precise and he knew just when he had to be ready each day.
There was something else for which Dr. Hall waited -- he waited for the presence of God. He knew that God would come to claim him, but he did not know when. How did he prepare for this eventuality? He lived in a spirit of anticipation. He lived filled with joy, despite the pain that was his daily lot. Dr. Hall lived in thanksgiving with the certainty that with every passing day he was one step closer to the goal for which he and all people wait, union with God. Dr. Hall was not afraid or apprehensive. He had no anxiety about an uncertain future. Rather, he lived in a state of patience, and in the process showed many, including myself, the face of God. That was a miracle to me.
Two weeks after I left Trinidad and returned to the novitiate outside Colorado Springs, I received a phone call from my friend Sr. Mary. She informed me of Dr. Hall's death. I thought I should be sad, but rather, I was filled with joy. The one elusive goal for which all people strive, union with God, was now his.
In our busy world we are constantly waiting. We wait in lines, at the bank and at the food store. We wait for our appointment with the dentist or doctor. We wait for special days and celebrations. Most of the events for which we wait have a specific date; we know precisely when they will come. We wait for our birthday, the next three-day weekend, or the next holiday. In each case we know precisely when the event will come. Thus, our preparation can be precise as well. We do not have to be as vigilant as we might. All that we need to do is to complete our list of preparations before the big day. This is the one criterion by which we judge our performance.
There are other events for which we wait which are not as certain in their timing. People in rural areas wait for the rains to nurture the land and crops. In the fall these same people wait for the time of harvest. All people wait for visits from family, friends, and loved ones, events which cannot always be planned. These events require more vigilance. We cannot be lazy; we must develop patience. We all wait for the coming of the Lord at a time that is unknown. We must, therefore, make ourselves ready now for the eventuality down the road.
2. One day a mighty and majestic pine tree, the tallest tree in the whole forest, said to a little squirrel playing in its branches, "There is a great treasure waiting for you at my topmost branch, if you are willing to make the journey in order to find it." Now this great pine tree was itself a great treasure. It produced some of the meatiest and tastiest pine nuts in the forest and it provided shelter for many animals that called the forest home. This little squirrel was inquisitive, however, and she wondered what the great treasure might be. She decided at that moment to take the journey so as to discover the great treasure.
The trip would be long and because the squirrel was bright she knew planning and preparation were required. Food had to be taken along on the journey. Thus, she chose from her nest some of the best and most delicious nuts that she had stored. She placed them in a little satchel and tied it around her waist. Then she began to climb. At the base of the tree the branches were full and the pine nuts were plentiful, but as she rose higher and higher in the tree, the branches became thinner and thinner and the pine nuts fewer and fewer. She stopped for a moment and rested. She was happy that she had brought food along on the trip. She took out a nut and enjoyed a little snack. This trip was more difficult then she had anticipated. She thought about returning home, but the commitment had been made and she would complete the journey.
As she climbed higher and higher she wondered what the great treasure might be. Maybe she should have asked the tree. But when she looked up she thought she saw the top. There was no need to ask now; she would soon find out for herself. After another half hour of climbing she made it to the top and clung to the topmost branch as it swayed in the wind. She looked around for the treasure, but could see nothing. She thought there might be a giant pine nut or at least one which was delightful to the eye; she saw nothing like this. Had the tree tricked her? Disappointed, frustrated, and now tired and hungry, she prepared to return home. Thus, she turned around, hung upside down, as squirrels often do, and made ready to climb down. But when she looked down the view that she beheld was truly amazing. She could see for miles, every valley and mountain, every stream and river. Because this was the tallest tree in the forest she could see without any obstruction. This was better than any pine nut could possibly be.
She wanted to stay there forever, but realized because the climb had been long and difficult that the sun would set in a few hours and she needed to return home by nightfall. Thus, renewed in spirit, if not in body, she made the easier trip down the tree. That night when speaking to all the other squirrels, she told them about her adventure, and it is said by all her friends that she was never hungry again.1
The little squirrel was uncertain as to the great prize, but she knew that it could not be attained without a trip to the top of the tree. That trip required preparation and planning. The gift of eternal life will require an arduous trip for us, but if we do not adequately prepare the gift will never be found.
Points Of Challenge And Questions To Ponder
1. We are constantly preparing for the next event -- birthday, anniversary, holiday -- but do we take equal care in our preparation for the Lord?
2. Are we procrastinators in our preparation? When it comes to celebrations that are known we might be able to procrastinate, but Jesus will come when we least expect him. Will we be ready?
3. If the headline of the morning paper read, "Jesus Christ To Return Tomorrow!" what would we do? Would we panic, go to church, or run in fear? Could we say we are ready and live with great anticipation of the event?
4. Are we concerned only about our own preparation or do we take time to assist others in their readiness for the Lord? Are we selfish or do we believe that God's call is to all people for all time?
5. Are we sensible in our approach to life? Do we take things as they come and give no care for the future? Do we realize the need for preparation in all things so that we can utilize the gifts and talents we possess to their maximum extent?
Exegesis And Explanation Of The Parable
The parable of the ten virgins presents us with a very confusing picture. While all scholars agree that Matthew is presenting a message on preparedness, they differ greatly on the originality of the parable, its use as an allegory, and its unity. Insufficient knowledge of Palestinian wedding practices and customs has led to much disagreement among exegetes concerning this passage. The parable, recorded only in Matthew, does exhibit the important Matthean theme of the pluralism that exists in the Christian community.
The wise and foolish virgins are representative of the wheat and tares (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43) and the separation of people at the end of time (Matthew 24:40-41, 45-51). Despite the unifying theme and emphasis on pluralism, this passage has been greatly debated in its purpose.
Many scholars believe this parable to be an allegory that explains the second coming of Jesus. By appending the parable to the apocalyptic discourse, exegetes believe that Matthew demonstrates his concern that people be watchful for Jesus' return. Certain details of the story are thus viewed as allegorical. The virgins represent the Christian community that awaits the bridegroom, Jesus the Messiah. This idea is consistent with Matthew's belief that the church is a mixed body, consisting of good and bad, elect and reprobate, wise and foolish. The bridegroom's delay alludes to the fact that Jesus has not returned as soon as many had hoped. The marriage feast symbolizes the life of the age to come. The oil merchants are Moses and the prophets while the call, "Look! Here is the bridegroom," is the trumpet call of God at the return of Christ. The closed doors stand for the Last Judgment. Much disagreement exists on the meaning of the lamps and extra oil. Martin Luther said the oil represented faith; some suggest it is love. The most popular contemporary idea is that the lamps represent good works that must shine before all, while the oil is the Holy Spirit. This latter idea has been challenged, however, as scholars ask if good deeds burn out before the final judgment.
The allegorical interpretation of this parable has gained support from those who point out the unrealistic details of the wedding. The marriage is described but without mention of the bride. The use of lamps for lighting the way was impractical; torches would have been used. Is it reasonable to think that oil merchants would have been open after midnight for business? The late hour of the wedding and the unexplained delay of the bridegroom also make this passage hard to believe in any way save as allegory. Thus, scholars have labeled the passage as allegory, subsequently attributed to Jesus by the apostolic church, that was intended to exhort the Christian community as the expected Parousia was delayed. The community was challenged not to be negligent in its preparation for the end.
Additional support for the case of allegory is found in the well established use of the feast as an image in Hebrew literature, symbolic of the joys of the Kingdom. The concept of a marriage feast was linked with the theme of the relationship of Yahweh and his people as a marriage. Christianity developed the parallel idea of Christ as the bridegroom and his church as the bride. Thus, the allegorical understanding of the bridegroom as the Messiah reflects not only allegory but provides insight into the Christology of the early church.
The prevailing belief that the parable is an allegory has been challenged by some scholars who suggest that such a conclusion leaves many uncertainties and introduces concepts that were foreign to the period. Exegetes state that the situation presented is not incompatible with the reality of first-century Palestine. Rabbinical material of the period contains only occasional references to marriage customs and there is no indication that the events described in the parable were not customary for the day. The lack of a contemporary description of a wedding in Palestine does not necessarily detract from the originality of the story. Additionally, there are parallels between the events in the parable and modern Palestinian village customs, such as the reception of a bridegroom with lamps, the celebration of weddings at night, and even the late arrival of the bridegroom. Some scholars suggest as well that the allegory of the Messiah as a bridegroom is completely foreign to the whole of the Old Testament and to the literature of Judaism of the period. Thus, the passage has been described by some biblical exegetes as a story of what preceded an actual wedding.
The question of origin of the parable necessitates some review of its possible connection with Jesus. Some scholars have argued that the original parable of Jesus is at the core of the pericope. The key question is whether the details are realistic, which would label the passage as a parable, or contrived to fit the theological understanding of the writer, leading to the conclusion of allegory. Some scholars suggest the midnight hour as one key element. If the idea of midnight generically means that there has been a delay, then the events described could be real, and thus the parable be original to Jesus. If, on the other hand, the hour of midnight is specific and essential to the story, then the pericope probably originated as an allegory with the Christian community, which realized that Jesus was not returning as soon as was first expected. Certain Scripture experts see this passage as a mutilated form of an authentic parable of Jesus. In other areas of the New Testament Jesus warned his disciples that foes would be present in the Kingdom, even within one's own household (Matthew 10:34-36), that loyalty to lesser causes and to God were not compatible (Matthew 10:37-38 and Luke 9:57-62), and that discriminations in those chosen would be inevitable. Some will be taken and others left (Luke 17:33-35).
The message of the pericope, whether it is viewed as allegory or parable, is preparedness for the coming of the Lord. As the coming of the bridegroom in the parable finds some attendants insufficiently prepared, the arrival of the Kingdom, with the Parousia and the Son of Man, will find some professed Christians unready. If they have not made the necessary preparations while there was time, there will be no opportunity to make up for lax attitudes and slack behavior at the last moment. Readiness in Matthew means living the life of the Kingdom by carrying out the precepts of the Sermon on the Mount. Many can do this for a short while, but when the Kingdom is delayed, problems arise. Being a peacemaker for a day is not as demanding as being a peacemaker year after year when hostility breaks out again and the bridegroom is delayed. Being merciful for an evening is pleasant, but being merciful for a lifetime, when the groom is delayed, requires preparedness. The obvious teaching is that those who fail to do the will of God and are not prepared for his return will be excluded from the Kingdom of Heaven. The attempt to buy oil after the arrival of the bridegroom demonstrates the futility of trying to prepare when it is too late. When the doors are shut there will no longer be an opportunity for repentance. God's judgment will be unequivocal and irreversible. Thus, the necessary preparations must be made.
Verse 13 of this passage is probably not part of the original parable since its message of vigilance is not the main point of the story. Nothing in the parable indicates that the bridesmaids were expected to stay awake. The wise as well as the foolish virgins fell asleep while they were waiting. Watchfulness is, therefore, not the outstanding characteristic that is taught in this parable. Rather, it is the quality of the preparation that is accented. This teaching was directed to Jesus' followers, the rank and file, as well as Jewish leaders. As the bridegroom in the time and culture of Jesus came late and without notice, so Jesus will arrive suddenly. Matthew wants the people to be ready for the Parousia when it comes.
Context Of The Parable
Context In The Church Year
For the final three weeks of the liturgical year the church turns to Matthew chapter 25 and its message of the Second Coming and God's judgment. For the next three weeks we will hear parables which demonstrate how God will make decisions on who will enter the Kingdom of Heaven and who will be barred. As the church begins to close one liturgical year and prepare for the season of Advent, we need to be reminded not only that there will be a final judgment, but also what the criteria for entry will be. Today, in the first of three parables, we are told of the general need for preparation. Jesus' return has been delayed; his arrival is uncertain. We can watch with great vigilance, but if we are not ready we will find ourselves on the outside. The Kingdom will come; we, however, must prepare now or be lost forever.
Context With Other Gospels
Matthew has skillfully placed this pericope after Jesus' discourse on the end times. In the last part of that discourse Jesus speaks of a division between those who are chosen, alert, and faithful, and those who are not. "Then two [men] will be in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken and one will be left" (24:40-41). The faithful and wise servant is placed in charge of all his master's possessions, but the wicked servant is assigned a place with the hypocrites (24:45-51). Thus, in the parable of the ten virgins, five enter the bridegroom's house and five find the door locked. This theme of separating the good from the bad is continued in the parable of the talents (25:14-30) and the description of a shepherd separating sheep from goats (24:31-33).
While this parable is found only in Matthew, there are some passages in Scripture which echo some of the ideas present in the story of the ten virgins. Luke 13:25-28 speaks of the door being locked, stopping access to the house. The admonition to keep watch is found in the conclusion of the Markan discourse, 13:33-37.
Context With First And Second Lessons
First Lesson: Amos 5:18-24 or Wisdom 6:12-16. The prophet Amos wrote to the Northern Kingdom of Israel in the eighth century before Christ. He portrays a dark image of the day of the Lord. The faithlessness of the Hebrews in the North will bring ruin to them before they know it. Amos forecasts the destruction of the kingdom at a time that will come swiftly and without warning. He calls the day of the Lord darkness, a clear indication that God's wrath rather than blessing will fall upon the people.
Amos' prophecy was a warning to the Northern Kingdom of its fate, but it became a lesson for the Hebrews centuries later of what can happen to those who are unprepared. The message for us is the same. We all think that we have infinite time, and thus many times we fail to make the necessary preparations today for the coming of the Lord. Amos spoke God's word, but his message was ignored. Thus, God's judgment came swiftly and severely against the Northern Kingdom. We are challenged to heed the warning today so our fate will not be the darkness of death, but the light of eternal salvation.
Second Lesson: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Saint Paul presents a message of hope to the Christian community at Thessalonica. Many feared that those who died before the Parousia would be lost, but Paul is clear in his teaching that those who are living will have no advantage over the dead when the Lord returns. Since the day of Jesus' return is not known there is a great need for preparation, but such effort is not wasted should one die.
Paul is confident that Jesus will return and those who have made preparations will be joined with him. This is a much more consoling message than the gloom prophesied by Amos. The Apostle to the Gentiles tells his readers that they must console each other with the message that Jesus' salvation can be theirs. Similarly, we need only be ready to accept it when it is offered.
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1. Paraphrased from "The Squirrel and the Pine Tree," in John R. Aurelio, Colors! Stories of the Kingdom (New York: The Crossroad Publishing Company, 1993), pp. 63-64.
Theme
The motto of the Boy Scouts of America is "Be Prepared." Preparation is very important in every aspect of life. The better prepared we are the fewer problems we experience, and those that come our way are more easily solved. Preparation also leads to greater acceptance of the hand life deals to us. The more we can think now of future possibilities and prepare ourselves for them, the better able we will be to live and triumph over the pitfalls and struggles of life. Our ultimate preparation must be for the coming of the Lord. Jesus will come when we least expect him. Thus, we must be ready or we will be lost forever.
Spiritual Food For The Journey
Preparation is a constant challenge of life. One might rightly ask the question, "Are we ever truly prepared?" Our life of preparation begins at an early age. In our school days we are specifically preparing ourselves for the future, but each step in the education process is itself preparation for the next step. When we are in elementary school we learn the basics of "the three R's" so that we will be prepared for high school. In this secondary level we work hard and make the grades necessary to prepare ourselves for college or university level work. We might think that we can slack off in college but we realize quickly that the best jobs and placements in graduate school are secured by those who are best prepared.
School is only the beginning of a lifetime of preparation. We prepare through knowledge and experience in our first job for the higher paying and more prestigious position which is our goal. We prepare now our finances for the things we wish to do in the future -- vacation, investments, retirement. We formulate plans for our future relationships. Most people hope to find the right person for a lasting, fulfilling, and committed relationship.
Our life is one of constant preparation -- are we ever ready? Readiness for a task or event takes much time and preparation. One must be ready to make the sacrifices necessary to assure that the outcome we desire is achieved. Our readiness for God is the most vital of all preparations, for the end we desire will last for eternity. If we in our busy world can take the time to educate ourselves mentally and prepare ourselves physically for events and tasks that are finite, should we not reflect upon the need to make preparations now for the call of the Lord? Some tasks and events come at a prescribed time that makes planning and preparation rather simple. Those that come unannounced require a constant state of readiness. We need to prepare today for Jesus, for as Scripture says, we know not the day nor the hour.
Application Of The Parable To Contemporary Life
Sermon Openings
1. Miracles can happen in the most unusual places. One happened to me in the little town of Trinidad, Colorado, a village of 5,000 people, when everyone is home, in the southeast corner of the state. Trinidad normally serves as a way stop for travelers along I-25, a major north-south route in that part of the country. I was sent to Trinidad in the summer of 1985 to work in a state-run nursing home. There was nothing, I felt, that could possibly be learned from a town with one movie theater, no cultural events, a place where the Greyhound bus stops and departs twice per day. How wrong I could be!
When I arrived I was met by Sr. Mary Theophane, a 79-year-young Sister of Charity. She was to be my mentor during my time in Trinidad. She was a woman full of faith; she was full of energy as well. My first full day of work, Sr. Mary introduced me to all the principals I would need to know, both staff and residents, at the home. That was the day I first met Dr. Hall.
Dr. Hall had been a chiropractor in Trinidad for more than fifty years. Now in retirement, he was living in the home. Dr. Hall was dying, suffering greatly from the pain of bone cancer. I do not remember, if I ever knew, which religious denomination Dr. Hall claimed, but it was obvious to all that he was a Christian man. Dr. Hall lived his life in a state of preparation. He prepared for many different things in varied ways. The first thing for which he prepared was his day. When he felt good he would dress himself; this was his goal. Dr. Hall felt that one should dress properly. For him this meant a long-sleeve shirt, a tie, and a sports jacket. This goal was very precise and he knew just when he had to be ready each day.
There was something else for which Dr. Hall waited -- he waited for the presence of God. He knew that God would come to claim him, but he did not know when. How did he prepare for this eventuality? He lived in a spirit of anticipation. He lived filled with joy, despite the pain that was his daily lot. Dr. Hall lived in thanksgiving with the certainty that with every passing day he was one step closer to the goal for which he and all people wait, union with God. Dr. Hall was not afraid or apprehensive. He had no anxiety about an uncertain future. Rather, he lived in a state of patience, and in the process showed many, including myself, the face of God. That was a miracle to me.
Two weeks after I left Trinidad and returned to the novitiate outside Colorado Springs, I received a phone call from my friend Sr. Mary. She informed me of Dr. Hall's death. I thought I should be sad, but rather, I was filled with joy. The one elusive goal for which all people strive, union with God, was now his.
In our busy world we are constantly waiting. We wait in lines, at the bank and at the food store. We wait for our appointment with the dentist or doctor. We wait for special days and celebrations. Most of the events for which we wait have a specific date; we know precisely when they will come. We wait for our birthday, the next three-day weekend, or the next holiday. In each case we know precisely when the event will come. Thus, our preparation can be precise as well. We do not have to be as vigilant as we might. All that we need to do is to complete our list of preparations before the big day. This is the one criterion by which we judge our performance.
There are other events for which we wait which are not as certain in their timing. People in rural areas wait for the rains to nurture the land and crops. In the fall these same people wait for the time of harvest. All people wait for visits from family, friends, and loved ones, events which cannot always be planned. These events require more vigilance. We cannot be lazy; we must develop patience. We all wait for the coming of the Lord at a time that is unknown. We must, therefore, make ourselves ready now for the eventuality down the road.
2. One day a mighty and majestic pine tree, the tallest tree in the whole forest, said to a little squirrel playing in its branches, "There is a great treasure waiting for you at my topmost branch, if you are willing to make the journey in order to find it." Now this great pine tree was itself a great treasure. It produced some of the meatiest and tastiest pine nuts in the forest and it provided shelter for many animals that called the forest home. This little squirrel was inquisitive, however, and she wondered what the great treasure might be. She decided at that moment to take the journey so as to discover the great treasure.
The trip would be long and because the squirrel was bright she knew planning and preparation were required. Food had to be taken along on the journey. Thus, she chose from her nest some of the best and most delicious nuts that she had stored. She placed them in a little satchel and tied it around her waist. Then she began to climb. At the base of the tree the branches were full and the pine nuts were plentiful, but as she rose higher and higher in the tree, the branches became thinner and thinner and the pine nuts fewer and fewer. She stopped for a moment and rested. She was happy that she had brought food along on the trip. She took out a nut and enjoyed a little snack. This trip was more difficult then she had anticipated. She thought about returning home, but the commitment had been made and she would complete the journey.
As she climbed higher and higher she wondered what the great treasure might be. Maybe she should have asked the tree. But when she looked up she thought she saw the top. There was no need to ask now; she would soon find out for herself. After another half hour of climbing she made it to the top and clung to the topmost branch as it swayed in the wind. She looked around for the treasure, but could see nothing. She thought there might be a giant pine nut or at least one which was delightful to the eye; she saw nothing like this. Had the tree tricked her? Disappointed, frustrated, and now tired and hungry, she prepared to return home. Thus, she turned around, hung upside down, as squirrels often do, and made ready to climb down. But when she looked down the view that she beheld was truly amazing. She could see for miles, every valley and mountain, every stream and river. Because this was the tallest tree in the forest she could see without any obstruction. This was better than any pine nut could possibly be.
She wanted to stay there forever, but realized because the climb had been long and difficult that the sun would set in a few hours and she needed to return home by nightfall. Thus, renewed in spirit, if not in body, she made the easier trip down the tree. That night when speaking to all the other squirrels, she told them about her adventure, and it is said by all her friends that she was never hungry again.1
The little squirrel was uncertain as to the great prize, but she knew that it could not be attained without a trip to the top of the tree. That trip required preparation and planning. The gift of eternal life will require an arduous trip for us, but if we do not adequately prepare the gift will never be found.
Points Of Challenge And Questions To Ponder
1. We are constantly preparing for the next event -- birthday, anniversary, holiday -- but do we take equal care in our preparation for the Lord?
2. Are we procrastinators in our preparation? When it comes to celebrations that are known we might be able to procrastinate, but Jesus will come when we least expect him. Will we be ready?
3. If the headline of the morning paper read, "Jesus Christ To Return Tomorrow!" what would we do? Would we panic, go to church, or run in fear? Could we say we are ready and live with great anticipation of the event?
4. Are we concerned only about our own preparation or do we take time to assist others in their readiness for the Lord? Are we selfish or do we believe that God's call is to all people for all time?
5. Are we sensible in our approach to life? Do we take things as they come and give no care for the future? Do we realize the need for preparation in all things so that we can utilize the gifts and talents we possess to their maximum extent?
Exegesis And Explanation Of The Parable
The parable of the ten virgins presents us with a very confusing picture. While all scholars agree that Matthew is presenting a message on preparedness, they differ greatly on the originality of the parable, its use as an allegory, and its unity. Insufficient knowledge of Palestinian wedding practices and customs has led to much disagreement among exegetes concerning this passage. The parable, recorded only in Matthew, does exhibit the important Matthean theme of the pluralism that exists in the Christian community.
The wise and foolish virgins are representative of the wheat and tares (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43) and the separation of people at the end of time (Matthew 24:40-41, 45-51). Despite the unifying theme and emphasis on pluralism, this passage has been greatly debated in its purpose.
Many scholars believe this parable to be an allegory that explains the second coming of Jesus. By appending the parable to the apocalyptic discourse, exegetes believe that Matthew demonstrates his concern that people be watchful for Jesus' return. Certain details of the story are thus viewed as allegorical. The virgins represent the Christian community that awaits the bridegroom, Jesus the Messiah. This idea is consistent with Matthew's belief that the church is a mixed body, consisting of good and bad, elect and reprobate, wise and foolish. The bridegroom's delay alludes to the fact that Jesus has not returned as soon as many had hoped. The marriage feast symbolizes the life of the age to come. The oil merchants are Moses and the prophets while the call, "Look! Here is the bridegroom," is the trumpet call of God at the return of Christ. The closed doors stand for the Last Judgment. Much disagreement exists on the meaning of the lamps and extra oil. Martin Luther said the oil represented faith; some suggest it is love. The most popular contemporary idea is that the lamps represent good works that must shine before all, while the oil is the Holy Spirit. This latter idea has been challenged, however, as scholars ask if good deeds burn out before the final judgment.
The allegorical interpretation of this parable has gained support from those who point out the unrealistic details of the wedding. The marriage is described but without mention of the bride. The use of lamps for lighting the way was impractical; torches would have been used. Is it reasonable to think that oil merchants would have been open after midnight for business? The late hour of the wedding and the unexplained delay of the bridegroom also make this passage hard to believe in any way save as allegory. Thus, scholars have labeled the passage as allegory, subsequently attributed to Jesus by the apostolic church, that was intended to exhort the Christian community as the expected Parousia was delayed. The community was challenged not to be negligent in its preparation for the end.
Additional support for the case of allegory is found in the well established use of the feast as an image in Hebrew literature, symbolic of the joys of the Kingdom. The concept of a marriage feast was linked with the theme of the relationship of Yahweh and his people as a marriage. Christianity developed the parallel idea of Christ as the bridegroom and his church as the bride. Thus, the allegorical understanding of the bridegroom as the Messiah reflects not only allegory but provides insight into the Christology of the early church.
The prevailing belief that the parable is an allegory has been challenged by some scholars who suggest that such a conclusion leaves many uncertainties and introduces concepts that were foreign to the period. Exegetes state that the situation presented is not incompatible with the reality of first-century Palestine. Rabbinical material of the period contains only occasional references to marriage customs and there is no indication that the events described in the parable were not customary for the day. The lack of a contemporary description of a wedding in Palestine does not necessarily detract from the originality of the story. Additionally, there are parallels between the events in the parable and modern Palestinian village customs, such as the reception of a bridegroom with lamps, the celebration of weddings at night, and even the late arrival of the bridegroom. Some scholars suggest as well that the allegory of the Messiah as a bridegroom is completely foreign to the whole of the Old Testament and to the literature of Judaism of the period. Thus, the passage has been described by some biblical exegetes as a story of what preceded an actual wedding.
The question of origin of the parable necessitates some review of its possible connection with Jesus. Some scholars have argued that the original parable of Jesus is at the core of the pericope. The key question is whether the details are realistic, which would label the passage as a parable, or contrived to fit the theological understanding of the writer, leading to the conclusion of allegory. Some scholars suggest the midnight hour as one key element. If the idea of midnight generically means that there has been a delay, then the events described could be real, and thus the parable be original to Jesus. If, on the other hand, the hour of midnight is specific and essential to the story, then the pericope probably originated as an allegory with the Christian community, which realized that Jesus was not returning as soon as was first expected. Certain Scripture experts see this passage as a mutilated form of an authentic parable of Jesus. In other areas of the New Testament Jesus warned his disciples that foes would be present in the Kingdom, even within one's own household (Matthew 10:34-36), that loyalty to lesser causes and to God were not compatible (Matthew 10:37-38 and Luke 9:57-62), and that discriminations in those chosen would be inevitable. Some will be taken and others left (Luke 17:33-35).
The message of the pericope, whether it is viewed as allegory or parable, is preparedness for the coming of the Lord. As the coming of the bridegroom in the parable finds some attendants insufficiently prepared, the arrival of the Kingdom, with the Parousia and the Son of Man, will find some professed Christians unready. If they have not made the necessary preparations while there was time, there will be no opportunity to make up for lax attitudes and slack behavior at the last moment. Readiness in Matthew means living the life of the Kingdom by carrying out the precepts of the Sermon on the Mount. Many can do this for a short while, but when the Kingdom is delayed, problems arise. Being a peacemaker for a day is not as demanding as being a peacemaker year after year when hostility breaks out again and the bridegroom is delayed. Being merciful for an evening is pleasant, but being merciful for a lifetime, when the groom is delayed, requires preparedness. The obvious teaching is that those who fail to do the will of God and are not prepared for his return will be excluded from the Kingdom of Heaven. The attempt to buy oil after the arrival of the bridegroom demonstrates the futility of trying to prepare when it is too late. When the doors are shut there will no longer be an opportunity for repentance. God's judgment will be unequivocal and irreversible. Thus, the necessary preparations must be made.
Verse 13 of this passage is probably not part of the original parable since its message of vigilance is not the main point of the story. Nothing in the parable indicates that the bridesmaids were expected to stay awake. The wise as well as the foolish virgins fell asleep while they were waiting. Watchfulness is, therefore, not the outstanding characteristic that is taught in this parable. Rather, it is the quality of the preparation that is accented. This teaching was directed to Jesus' followers, the rank and file, as well as Jewish leaders. As the bridegroom in the time and culture of Jesus came late and without notice, so Jesus will arrive suddenly. Matthew wants the people to be ready for the Parousia when it comes.
Context Of The Parable
Context In The Church Year
For the final three weeks of the liturgical year the church turns to Matthew chapter 25 and its message of the Second Coming and God's judgment. For the next three weeks we will hear parables which demonstrate how God will make decisions on who will enter the Kingdom of Heaven and who will be barred. As the church begins to close one liturgical year and prepare for the season of Advent, we need to be reminded not only that there will be a final judgment, but also what the criteria for entry will be. Today, in the first of three parables, we are told of the general need for preparation. Jesus' return has been delayed; his arrival is uncertain. We can watch with great vigilance, but if we are not ready we will find ourselves on the outside. The Kingdom will come; we, however, must prepare now or be lost forever.
Context With Other Gospels
Matthew has skillfully placed this pericope after Jesus' discourse on the end times. In the last part of that discourse Jesus speaks of a division between those who are chosen, alert, and faithful, and those who are not. "Then two [men] will be in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken and one will be left" (24:40-41). The faithful and wise servant is placed in charge of all his master's possessions, but the wicked servant is assigned a place with the hypocrites (24:45-51). Thus, in the parable of the ten virgins, five enter the bridegroom's house and five find the door locked. This theme of separating the good from the bad is continued in the parable of the talents (25:14-30) and the description of a shepherd separating sheep from goats (24:31-33).
While this parable is found only in Matthew, there are some passages in Scripture which echo some of the ideas present in the story of the ten virgins. Luke 13:25-28 speaks of the door being locked, stopping access to the house. The admonition to keep watch is found in the conclusion of the Markan discourse, 13:33-37.
Context With First And Second Lessons
First Lesson: Amos 5:18-24 or Wisdom 6:12-16. The prophet Amos wrote to the Northern Kingdom of Israel in the eighth century before Christ. He portrays a dark image of the day of the Lord. The faithlessness of the Hebrews in the North will bring ruin to them before they know it. Amos forecasts the destruction of the kingdom at a time that will come swiftly and without warning. He calls the day of the Lord darkness, a clear indication that God's wrath rather than blessing will fall upon the people.
Amos' prophecy was a warning to the Northern Kingdom of its fate, but it became a lesson for the Hebrews centuries later of what can happen to those who are unprepared. The message for us is the same. We all think that we have infinite time, and thus many times we fail to make the necessary preparations today for the coming of the Lord. Amos spoke God's word, but his message was ignored. Thus, God's judgment came swiftly and severely against the Northern Kingdom. We are challenged to heed the warning today so our fate will not be the darkness of death, but the light of eternal salvation.
Second Lesson: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Saint Paul presents a message of hope to the Christian community at Thessalonica. Many feared that those who died before the Parousia would be lost, but Paul is clear in his teaching that those who are living will have no advantage over the dead when the Lord returns. Since the day of Jesus' return is not known there is a great need for preparation, but such effort is not wasted should one die.
Paul is confident that Jesus will return and those who have made preparations will be joined with him. This is a much more consoling message than the gloom prophesied by Amos. The Apostle to the Gentiles tells his readers that they must console each other with the message that Jesus' salvation can be theirs. Similarly, we need only be ready to accept it when it is offered.
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1. Paraphrased from "The Squirrel and the Pine Tree," in John R. Aurelio, Colors! Stories of the Kingdom (New York: The Crossroad Publishing Company, 1993), pp. 63-64.
