Gospel: Matthew 25: 1-13
The parable of the virgins often evokes sermons about preparing for the kingdom, having detailed plans, and acquiring all sorts of things to be ready for the coming of the Lord. Jesus, however, makes the lesson very simple: be alert and open to the presence of God each and every day. If we are ever mindful of God's presence in the world, we will have no difficulty in discovering the kingdom in our life.
For the reality is that the kingdom of God is here and now in our midst. God is present in every crevice of the universe. God dwells within each human being on earth - past, present, and future. By remaining ever focused on God being among us now we can never lose sight of the kingdom, for it is here. Our lamps are ever full of oil, for we are continually fueled by the presence of God here and now.
We have heard enough of the erroneous interpretations of Revelation and apocalyptic literature, the endless predictions of the end times. All of these musings pervert the Gospel, for in focusing solely on a kingdom to come in some grand fashion we commit vast crimes against many people here and now, and we deny the fundamental truth of the kingdom being present here and now, for God is present here and now - now and always.
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