Feasting with God

Matthew 25: 1 - 13

...slumbered and slept...went to buy

This parable of the wise and foolish maidens seems to be a caution against being like the foolish ones who were unprepared and missed the boat. They missed the coming of God. The argument therefore follows that if we are careful to 'take oil' with us, we will be ready, like the wise maidens. I wonder what that "oil" is. We should certainly be prepared, but how are we to be prepared in order not to miss the coming of God into our lives?

"Be prepared; watch" seems to be the lesson. But in what way could we 'take oil' with our 'lamps'? Both the wise and foolish maidens slept because the bridegroom was delayed - it wasn't a matter of staying up to wait. Resting was not a problem during the wait. The difference was in having or not having "oil".

I would like to believe that we each have to discern what it is in our lives that keeps us aware and connected with God. Is it a particular spiritual discipline? Is it an inner attitude of heart that will keep our spiritual 'light' burning? What will help us be ready to meet God and as it were 'dine with him'; feast at his banqueting table? The parable seems to remind me that to be wise, I have to know what my "oil" is and make the effort to hold on to a supply of it. I don't think we can prescribe that for anyone else. Each of us need to hear our own heart's special need, for who wants to miss feasting with God?