Sunday, November 12, 2023 Proper 27
Jesus said, “Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” Matthew 25:1-13
It can be hard to wait, and while waiting, to stay awake. Waiting can also make us anxious to the point of despair. Sometimes we can convince ourselves that the blessings are never coming. We give up and let our light fade out. Today, we are called to stay away and be wise, to trust that God is drawing near, even when we are worn down and despairing. It can be very hard since the world and our challenges wear us down. We can think we are forgotten or left out, but love is on the horizon, coming our way bringing new blessings for us all.
A Sunday Litany
Loving Creator, source of all light and joy
you give us your wisdom and compassion
you bless us time and time again
turning our tears of pain into tears of joy.
O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.
We often forget to be wise and ready
we are distracted by our daily challenges
we think we are on our own and despair
yet your love's light is always drawing near.
O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.
Help us to make ready for new blessings
help us to carry the torch of hope for others
make us your people again and again
and give us the strength to stay awake.
O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.
You have been generous and kind with us
help us share your blessings with everyone.
O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.
Break down the walls that keep us apart
make us always ready to spread your peace.
O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love.
For you are all our beginnings and our ends
make us always ready to welcome you home.
O Lord, make us always ready to receive the light of your love. Amen.
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