Living in the Spirit
November 12, 2017

Scripture Reading: Matthew 25:1-13

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 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.
–Matthew 25:8-13

First, I would like to point out that the foolish bridesmaid reportedly had the resources necessary to buy more oil. They either did not choose to use it for purchasing the oil, or they were procrastinators. They sound a lot like most of us. Funny how I can ignore something which seriously needs my attention like the slow leak in my shower head. When my hard drive crashed recently, I took it to the Geek Squad, like taking someone who is ill to the emergency room.

Whether we like it or not, God expects us to be purpose driven and intentional in our work related to the coming of the Kingdom of God and everything we do relates to the coming of the Kingdom of God. Being a follower of Christ is not a spectator sport. Players in a basketball game who are taking a rest on the bench during the game never disengage from the game itself. They have to remain diligent to the process for when reinserted they must blend in seamlessly with the rest of the team. The same is true of our service to Christ.

Called as partners in Christ’s service,
    Called to ministries of grace,
    We respond with deep commitment
    Fresh new lines of faith to trace.
    May we learn the art of sharing,
    Side by side and friend with friend,
    Equal partners in our caring
    To fulfill God’s chosen end.*

Prayer:  God, give us the courage to prepare for whatever we face in our service to you, help us stay in good spiritual, physical, and mental health, so our entrance I flawless when sent to do your work. Amen.

*First verse of Called as Partners in Christ’s service, by Jane Parker Huber see at http://worship-organizer.awtrey.com/hymnal/?number=343

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.