Matt 24 (plus 25:1-13)

So, yesterday I didn't have all that big a thought when it came to the passage. I really don't know that much about the end times. So, my thought for yesterday is kinda part of chapter 25.

The first parable told in chapter 25 is about the end times (and so are the other two. lol...) But the first one relates a lot better to the material covered in the 24th chapter.

v36 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, (nor the Son,) but only the Father."

The first parable is about the 10 virgins waiting for the wedding banquet to begin. 5 brought extra oil, the other 5 did not. They all fell asleep, but were awoke as the cry went out saying 'Here he comes!' The 5 now had no oil for their lamps so they had to go get some and while gone he came and took the other five into the banquet, shutting the door on anyone else, including the other 5 when they show up late.

Now, I think this parable stresses being prepared (having the extra oil) as do a number of other parables about staying alert and watching for when the master of the house returns, but at the same time shows God's grace. Fact: in the parable they all fell asleep. Had the bridegroom returned at that point they may all have been left outside.

2 Pet 3:9 "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."

The timing was such that those 5 were awoken by the time he returned.

However, the other 5 were still not prepared. They could have gone off at anytime before and acquired more oil. It's probably way harder to get some in the middle of the night, while you have no oil in your lamps.

So, be prepared for His coming back and know that if you do stumble, there is still grace for you as you seek His face each day.