THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Preparing Our Lamps

This week as we continue to remember our loved ones who have gone before us, we also think about our own deaths and preparation for them.  Especially as we draw near to Advent.  Thinking ahead to, and preparing for our death, is not usually a fun family activity.  In today's Gospel, though, Jesus teaches us it can be done with light and in the company of others.

The Gospel of Matthew (25:1-13) presents us with two examples of how to wait for Him: one good and one bad.  Jesus wants us to wait for him with lamps filled, so we are able to burn bright for him in the dark.  We already know the oil we need.  We fill our lamps with the sacraments, reading His word, loving our neighbors (yes, all of them), and keeping Him close to our hearts as we walk through life waiting to meet him.  These things allow the Holy Spirit to light our way. 

Jesus did not give us the parable of the two virgins. There were ten.  We are not alone, we wait with others.  We can encourage others to fill their lamps as well, before it is too late.

Should Jesus have given some credit to the five who at least brought their lamps?  After all, they were concerned with what appeared right.  Maybe their lamps were beautiful. But they were empty, and because of that, they gave off no light. Jesus wants us to be light.  He wants us fulfilled on the inside with our wicks trimmed waiting with joy for Him.

In this season let us prepare our lamps to burn bright.

--Abel Reyes

Send Us Forth are reflections written by St. Matthew parishioners and friends.