How do you approach packing for a holiday or a trip? Do you plan everything meticulously in advance, making lists, putting away important items long before you go, and leaving nothing to chance? Or do you take more of a last-minute approach, rushing round in what looks like chaos?

In these two parables, Jesus shows the disciples how he expects his people to prepare for his coming and it’s clear from what he says that a rushed, last-minute effort won’t do. The wise virgins were prepared well ahead of the bridegroom’s return. The servants, it says, waited “a long time” for their master’s return, and were expected to continue their work throughout the whole time, showing a proper return for the investment their master had made in them.

Jesus does not go into precise detail about what it means to be ‘ready’, but he certainly makes it clear that there’s no room for complacency. The virgins watched, and the servants worked. These are to be our attitudes too.

There is much work to be done on earth, even while we watch for the Son of Man to bring the kingdom of heaven. We need not neglect one for the other. We certainly cannot afford to neglect both.

May God make us watchful and wise, fruitful and faithful as we await Jesus’ glorious return!

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NEWBOLD COMMUNITY CHURCH