Kingdom Business

“Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The five who were foolish didn’t take enough olive oil for their lamps, but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil. When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. “At midnight they were roused by the shout, ‘Look, the bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet him!’ “All the bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps. Then the five foolish ones asked the others, ‘Please give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.’ “But the others replied, ‘We don’t have enough for all of us. Go to a shop and buy some for yourselves.’ “But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked. Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’ “But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’ “So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return. [Matthew 25.1-13]

You know, all the easy-peasy grace teachings out there really don't line up with Jesus' teaching here.

Here and elsewhere, Jesus makes it very clear that His followers are to be on watch for His return almost as if it could be missed otherwise. Should we not at least be concerned by this? I think so!

For all who are content to just 'shelter in place' and wait for Jesus' return, I don't see much hope of a glad reunion. There is, no doubt, a right way to be found upon Jesus' return and a wrong way to be found upon Jesus' return.

The illustrations provided by Jesus in Matthew 25 and elsewhere serve as clear reminders that we have responsibilities on earth. There is Kingdom business to be done.

Father, I see no alternatives for true Christ followers other than to be found doing Kingdom business. Forgive me for allowing myself to be lulled to sleep by false doctrines that are simply tactics of the enemy to keep me away from You.