DOORS SHUT: A CALL TO PREPAREDNESS
The parable of the Ten Virgins (Mt 25:1-13) offers a powerful lesson for all Christians. Ten virgins awaited a bridegroom, but only five were prepared. These wise virgins brought extra oil for their lamps, symbolizing their spiritual readiness. The foolish virgins, lacking this foresight, found their lamps failing when the bridegroom arrived.
A Door of Salvation
In the Book of Genesis, God instructs Noah to build an ark with “a door in its side” (Gen 6:16). This door represents the narrow path to salvation offered by God. Once Noah and the chosen animals entered, “the Lord shut them in” (Gen 7:16). This act signifies the separation between those faithful to God and those who rejected His message.
A Time for Preparation
Just as Jesus warned of the sudden closing of the door of heaven in Luke 13:25, the parable echoes this urgency. The Church teaches that God’s mercy is boundless, but there comes a time when we must accept His grace. Just as the unprepared virgins were shut out, so too will those who fail to prepare their hearts for Christ’s return.
Living the Faith: The Key to the Door
The “oil” the foolish virgins lacked represents a life lived according to God’s will. Catholic teachings emphasize the importance of faith expressed through actions. Our good works, rooted in faith, are the fuel that keeps our spiritual lamps burning brightly.
The Church: Our Guide
Jesus himself is the “gate” (Jn 10:9), and He entrusted the “keys of the kingdom of heaven” to Peter and his successors, the Popes (Mt 16:19). By staying united with the Church and following its teachings, we receive guidance on how to live a Christ-centered life and fulfill God’s will.
REFLECTION
The parable is a wake-up call for all Christians. It is not enough to simply believe; we must actively live out our faith through good works and obedience to God’s commandments. The door of salvation remains open now, but it will not stay open forever. Let us use this time to deepen our faith, strengthen our connection with the Church, and ensure our lamps are filled with the oil of good works, so that when Christ returns, we may be found ready to enter the eternal wedding feast.
This parable calls us to a vigilant and active faith. As Christians, we must recognize the urgency of living according to God’s will and preparing for Christ’s return. Our spiritual readiness is not just about personal salvation but also about being a light to others. By embracing the teachings of the Church and committing to good works, we can ensure that our lamps are always burning brightly, ready to welcome the Bridegroom and share in the joy of His eternal banquet. Let us commit to a life of preparedness, faith, and love, reflecting the light of Christ in all we do.