“And while they were going away to make the purchase, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut”
(Matthew 25:10, NASB)

The Christmas season gives each of us the opportunity to remember, reflect upon, and celebrate the first coming of Jesus as a tiny baby and, ultimately, the Savior of the world. While He spent time on earth, Jesus spoke very clearly, not only about his impending suffering and death, but He also promised to return again a second time as a conquering King.

In the parable of the ten virgins, Jesus refers to Himself as a bridegroom who will one day return to receive His bride. All born-again believers represent His Bride as stated in other New Testament passages (Revelation 19:7, 21:9). In this parable, Jesus explains that all ten virgins thought they were prepared for His return, but only five had oil for their lamps. The oil represents the indwelling Holy Spirit.

The five virgins with the oil rejoiced to see their Bridegroom and anticipated the wonderful celebration of the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:9). The other five virgins thought they were prepared, and instead received the words, “Truly I say to you, I do not know you” (Matthew 25:12). Earlier they are described as foolish (Matthew 25:2) because they thought they were prepared to meet their bridegroom, but ended up empty.

As you celebrate Christmas, are you ready for Jesus’ second coming? Have you truly accepted Him as your Savior? Is your lamp filled with oil? In other words, is your life filled with the Holy Spirit? When the Bridegroom comes to receive His Bride, are you prepared and know for certain that you are invited to the heavenly wedding feast? If so, thank God for all that He has planned for you. If you are not certain, let this Christmas be the time that you receive Jesus’ gift of love and eternal life.