1 September , 2023 | Friday of the 21st Week in Ordinary Time

 Gospel Mt 25:1-13

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Gospel Text:

Jesus told his disciples this parable:

"The Kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins

who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.

Five of them were foolish and five were wise.

The foolish ones, when taking their lamps,

brought no oil with them,

but the wise brought flasks of oil with their lamps.

Since the bridegroom was long delayed,

they all became drowsy and fell asleep.

At midnight, there was a cry,

'Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!'

Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps.

The foolish ones said to the wise,

'Give us some of your oil,

for our lamps are going out.'

But the wise ones replied,

'No, for there may not be enough for us and you.

Go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.'

While they went off to buy it,

the bridegroom came

and those who were ready went into the wedding feast with him.

Then the door was locked.

Afterwards the other virgins came and said,

'Lord, Lord, open the door for us!'

But he said in reply,

'Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.'

Therefore, stay awake,

for you know neither the day nor the hour."

Reflections:

The parable of the ten virgins teaches us the importance of personal responsibility, vigilance, perseverance in faith, spiritual preparedness, and seizing the opportunities provided by God. We can strengthen our relationship with God and live as obedient disciples, if we implement these principles in our lives. The foolish virgins, although they initially had the opportunity to prepare, they neglected it, resulting in their exclusion from the wedding banquet. The wise virgins had a genuine faith and have been diligent in their relationship with God. They were ready and watchful for the arrival of the bridegroom, representing Jesus.

Activity: 

Examine yourself to determine whether there are distractions or worldly concerns that are hindering your spiritual preparedness? 

A note of appreciation and welcome to Sr Shiji Abraham FSP for contributing the Reflections for the month of September 2023. As we journey each day with these, let us pray for her and for all her endeavours. Also for Sharlene Fernandes who accompanies with the audio.