Matthew 25: 1-13
The parable of the Ten Virgins is the gospel's way of telling people of the possible delay of the return of the Messiah. The story is full of symbolisms. The groom is Jesus Christ and the bride is the Church. The ten bridesmaids represent the totality of believers. While the oil symbolizes the good works of people.
Faith without good works is just like a lamp without oil – it is dead and useless. Jesus criticizes the scribes and the Pharisees because their faith in God is not accompanied by works of charity and mercy. They are like the foolish virgins who did not bring reserved oil for their lamps. When the Messiah returns, they would not have any light to give and they could not join the wedding banquet in heaven.
Waiting for somebody, whose coming is not known, is never easy. Today's gospel serves to inspire us to be patient and persevering like the wise virgins who always carry extra oil for their lamps. Let us not stop doing good so that when the Savior comes he will find us filled with light and ready to celebrate with him in heaven.
