Matthew 25:10-13–And 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.  11 Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’  12  But he answered, ‘Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.’  13  Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. 

Though a reality, none of us should gladly anticipate dying.  To do so would be very morbid and unhealthy, especially if we are overall healthy.  But if we did anticipate not being around forever, and knowing that one day we will perish, would we handle things differently?  Would we change anything about how we deal with those we love?

Not taking things for granted, helps us “maximize moments” with people.  That we share our hearts, reconcile issues, and do whatever it takes in order to live fully in the moment with people.  But as idealistic as that sounds, it is very difficult.  Living with such anticipation takes a mental shift, usually helped by losing people and things that you thought would be around a lot longer…

Much like the parable of the ten virgins in this passage.  Preparing and anticipating such an event, showed that the five “wise virgins” were looking forward to the bridegroom returning.  Which means they prioritized their life around him coming.  That they were always ready, because his return was at the forefront of their minds.  Whereas the foolish virgins did not anticipate him returning, because his return was not a priority in their lives…

When Jesus talks about being “prepared for His return”, that only comes by being in close relationship with Him.  When we haven’t prioritized our life around His return, we find ourselves entangled with things, that makes us think He is never coming to separate the “goats and the sheep.”  So we live prioritizing whatever we want, leaving us not ready…(2 Peter 3:1-10, 2 Timothy 2:4)

If you had someone close to you pass away that you did not anticipate, it teaches you to rectify things quickly, fight pettiness, or anything that you know you should address.  You realize that if you value the relationship, and share genuine intimacy with them, you’re always fighting things that look to take over that intimacy.  Like us with Jesus, fighting sin, striving to obey, and fulfilling His purpose voices to Him that we are ready for His return!  Come Lord Jesus! (Revelation 22:20)

In His Love, Ld