Be Ready

Matthew 25:1-13And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. 11Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he answered, ‘Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.’ Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.
"We interrupt this Advent with look ahead to the next one." It would be foolish for us to get all sentimental about shepherds, stars, and mangers without taking a step back to ask what does it all mean. If at Christmas God came to us how are we watching and waiting for him to come again? It may seem odd to break into the joyful celebrations of Advent and talk about judgment but we believe it's the perfect time. The parable of the Ten Bridesmaids gives us an opportunity to pause and really look in the mirror at what we are truly waiting for. How can judgment be joyful? How can the end bring peace? How will the coming of Christ fill our every