Jesus tells this parable to underscore the point made in yesterday’s passage: we must be ready at any moment because we do not know when he will return.  

The virgins in this passage had a role similar to that of modern-day bridesmaids: to prepare and accompany the bride on her wedding day. It is an honour to have this role, and there is excitement and anticipation. The UK tradition is for the bride to be late, but in this case it is the bridegroom they are waiting for. In fact, he’s so late they all fall asleep.  

We are told that the difference between the wise and foolish virgins is whether or not they had brought extra oil for their lamps. I guess the foolish virgins assumed either that what they had would be enough, or that they could nip out and buy more tomorrow. It was an assumption that cost them their place at the feast. Having enough but no more wasn’t enough in the long run. 

The implication is that to be wise is to recognise that Jesus might come at any time and be prepared for that possibility. Following Jesus doesn’t mean simply sitting back, complacently awaiting his return. We need to be fully committed in our living for him, not just going through the motions. When Jesus comes, we won’t be able to rely on someone else’s extra oil.

Lord, thank you for the parables of Jesus. Please help me in my study today to understand better what it means for our lives now. 

You might be thinking, ‘Why are ten virgins waiting for the bridegroom? Which of them will be the bride?’ The answer is that ‘virgin’ simply means ‘young woman’ and these are invited wedding guests. Jesus’ parable is drawn from local custom. When a couple married they spent lavishly on a huge party, which could last for days. But it was normal for the bridegroom to keep his guests (and bride) waiting. At the signal of his arrival, everyone would awaken and, if dark, rush to meet him with the burning torches. 

Because no one knew the time and date of the wedding in advance, people needed to be prepared for all eventualities. Half of the bride’s friends clearly weren’t. Sleeping was normal. Not having oil for their lamps was not. They couldn’t borrow oil from others – they needed it – so they were deprived of greeting the bridegroom and enjoying the wedding festivities. Some of Jesus’ followers would have grasped the story’s significance for Jewish people. As God’s chosen, their whole history was preparation for the coming of God’s Son. But, though invited, their unpreparedness might mean they forfeited being included when he came.  

Bible scholar William Barclay cites two lessons we can all learn. First – some things cannot be left to the last minute. If we are going to take a driving test, we need weeks of preparation: it’s too late to start preparing as the examiner approaches the car! Second – some things cannot be borrowed. None of us can borrow a relationship with God: we must have our own. The consequence for the young women was that they missed a great party and heaps of fun. The consequences of being unready for Christ’s return are very much more serious. 

Lord, show me today what I need to change in my attitude to you, so I can be more prepared for your coming.