TEN VIRGINS
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8; Psalm 97; Matthew 25:1-13
The parable of the Ten Virgins has been described as a “watching parable. Ten virgins awaited a bridegroom; five brought enough oil for their lamps; they arrived early and were rewarded. They were regarded as wise virgins.
The other five had limited oil; they attempted to borrow, but were denied. They went for oil but arrived late. They were regarded as foolish virgins. Virtue is not only about virginity, but also about the holistic character of virgins. Don’t be a foolish virgin.
The parable of the ten virgins has a clear eschatological theme. It is a call to watchfulness and preparation for the last day. It also reminds us that there are certain things we cannot borrow. The foolish virgins couldn’t borrow oil when they needed it most.
We cannot borrow virtue. We can always borrow shoes, wigs, trousers, and the like, but we cannot borrow wisdom, virtue, and holiness. Precisely because of this, St. Paul in the first reading calls us to embrace holiness and abstain from immoralities. We can build a holy life by practicing virtue daily.
LET US PRAY
O God, who cause the minds of the faithful to unite in a single purpose, grant your people to love what you command and to desire what you promise, that, amid the uncertainties of this world, our hearts may be fixed on that place where true gladness is found. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Fr.Daniel Evbotokhai
