As a church, we have been praying each week with Kevin and Julie for an end to this pandemic. Whilst there may be much more to do, the numbers are dropping and the lockdown is gradually easing, making a return to 'normal' church a little nearer. It's so easy to get caught up in the practicalities of church - the 'where', 'when' and 'how', and even 'if' - that perhaps sometimes we forget that our spiritual self is also invited!
The question is, are we ready? Jesus poses that question in the parable of the wise and foolish virgins (Matthew 25:1-13). Kevin looks at this challenging and encouraging story in this week's talk about the promise of Christ's return.
Click here to open the playlist, then start the service by pressing 'Play All' - as before, each video will then play automatically, including some worship time.
The Reading
Kevin's talk includes the reading, but if you want to read it for yourself, it's right here...
Matthew 25: 1-13 - The Parable of the Ten Virgins
25 “At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. 5 The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.
6 “At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’
7 “Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’
9 “‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’
10 “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.
11 “Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’
12 “But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’
13 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.