Friday—Read Matthew 25:1-13

Jesus tells a parable about his own second coming, emphasizing the need for readiness at all times.  Psalm 45 celebrates a royal wedding. What insights do vss. 13b-15 of Ps. 45 give about wedding customs? In this parable, what character in the story is missing? Is there a footnote in your bible addressing this question? Why do some manuscripts want to add this character? Read Matt. 7:24-27. On what in this lesson does that passage shed light? What do you think is the point of this parable? What does Matthew intend v. 13 to do? Is “keep awake” the best choice of words, or can you think of a better expression?

Prayer for the week

O God of justice and love, you illumine our way through life with the words of your Son. Give us the light we need, and awaken us to the needs of others, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.  Amen.