There’s a hurricane coming to Florida. Stores are lined with people waiting to buy water and necessary supplies. Gas stations are packed with folks fueling up in case they need to evacuate. The whole state is preparing for the impact of the storm. This isn’t new for Florida. A storm hit just two weeks ago, and another several weeks before that. Storms are the norm here, and they’re to be expected.
As I watched many respond in fear and panic, I couldn’t help but wonder if I was missing something. We have the knowledge and history of storms hitting this area. We have experience with storms blowing through our state. And we have advanced warning of the impending storm. I understand the concern or disappointment over potential property damage, but beyond that, I find myself at a loss for the fear and panic roaring through the country.
Those in the direct path of the storm or in storm surge areas know to evacuate. Those in less impacted areas can prepare. At the end of the day, if the worst thing I experience is losing power, I’d say that’s not so horrible.
I think the ones who are prepared and understand the reality of the situation aren’t the ones panicking. It’s the ones who don’t know what storms look like or how to prepare who are anxious.
And I wonder if this is true when God says to prepare for His return.
Some are indifferent, apathetic, or simply unbelieving.
Others are panicked, filled with fear, running to and fro.
But some—just some—are prepared. Not panicked. Not worried. Prepared. They know what Jesus looks like. They know what He sounds like. They know what to expect because they know Him. They’re prepared in advance, not scrambling on the day of His return. They have oil in their lamps and enough to keep the light on until He comes.
The wise women, like those in the parable, keep their oil ready. They know they need enough for when the Bridegroom arrives. They’re not giving their oil away at the last moment—they’re holding onto it, making sure they’re prepared. The storms in life reveal our oil level. Do you have more than enough oil? Or are you just getting by? Do you have any oil at all?
Don’t wait until the Bridegroom comes to go looking for your oil. Prepare now. Fill your lamps and keep extra oil so your light never goes out.
Is there something or someone pulling you away from God, keeping you from getting the oil you need? Let’s be wise women who keep our lamps full, ready for His return.
*Written October 2024. There is no current hurricane coming to the state.
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