Maybe it is just me. But isn’t logic, well, logical? Why is it that what seems so logical to me, does not even enter the picture of another person? I mean, isn’t there evidence-based research to support what is considered best practice for loading a dishwasher?! Isn’t it logical to use your turn signal when switching lanes, or to not travel at a slow speed in the passing lane? Well, apparently what is considered wise and logical has been an issue that goes way back. In our reading for this next Sunday we hear the parable of the 10 bridesmaids waiting for the groom to show up. Five are “foolish” and five are “wise” (Matt 25:2). The “wise” bridesmaids bring extra oil for their lamps whereas the “foolish” do not. Well, as you can imagine, the groom is delayed and when he finally shows up the “wise” bridesmaids are there to meet him with their lamps trimmed and burning brightly and the “foolish” ones have gone off to buy additional oil and thus miss the groom. To me, it is only logical to assume that the groom could be delayed, so it makes sense to come prepared. As we know, this parable is about the return of Jesus. Doesn’t the Bible make it clear in multiple places that the time of His return was not known by anyone except the Father in heaven (Matt 24:36; Mk 13:32)? That His return will be like a “thief in the night” (Matt 24:43; 1 Thess 5:2)? That we are not to believe those who try to point out where the Messiah will be (Matt 24:23)? Yet, many people still try to predict when He will return, which is always in the near future, and then organize their life around that. Our faith is not a sprint; it is a marathon. We can build for today, but we also need to build for tomorrow. And throughout it all, we always need to be ready and prepared for His imminent return. Do not be foolish! Be wise!
I Thess 5: 20: Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.