the parables of Jesus: Matthew 25:1-13 by ric gustafson
In this story, Jesus is challenging his followers to be vigilant. The occasion is a wedding and the conclusion is a warning. Planning for a first century Jewish wedding took years. Most marriages were arranged by the parents. A price was paid by the groom's family to the bride's father. The betrothal period was a legally binding promise of marriage. The marriage ceremony was a week long festival which started with the groom going to the bride's house. No one knew when the bridegroom and his entourage would arrive. Bridesmaids would carry small clay lamps that held a certain amount of oil.
In Jesus's story, the groom was tardy so five of the bridesmaids ran out of oil for their lamps. They ran off to fetch more oil. In the meantime, the groom arrived and closed the door. When the bridesmaids came back, the wedding had started and the door was bolted shut. They were too late.
Jesus was telling the people and us to be watchful and ready when the end of time comes.
The End- dedicated to Tom E
research help: ' Inverted' by Tom Ellsworth
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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