Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. Matthew 25:3-5 NASB
Electricity and flashlights have almost blotted out our memory of the oil lamp. Stories like Aladdin remind us of these antiquated lights. Oil lamps had a bowl or reservoir for the oil and a spout for a piece of string or linen that served as a wick. The wick would soak up the oil and once lit, would produce a steady flame. Occasionally the wick would need to be trimmed and relit to provide a brighter and hotter flame.
Jesus’ parable of the wise and foolish virgins waiting for the bridegroom is a picture of His church, Jesus’ bride, waiting for His second coming. The oil is symbolic of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
The oil lamp is a beautiful picture of our relationship with the Holy Spirit. God’s Spirit supplies all our needs from His riches in glory (Phil. 4:19). However, we are responsible to fill our lamp with oil (the Holy Spirit) and to light the wick. Shining for Jesus is an intimate partnership with the Spirit of the living God.
This begs the question, “How do you buy oil?” You cannot buy the Holy Spirit with money as Simon, the sorcerer of Samaria, found out in Acts chapter eight. No, the Holy Spirit is secured by engaging in activities that cultivate relationship with God. The cost is time and making Him a priority.
The wise virgins in Jesus’ story set good priorities. They prioritized time with the Holy Spirit for the oil of intimacy. Active relationship is the key for shining for Jesus. Occasionally some things need to be trimmed that hinder us from burning brighter and hotter for Him. We have a responsibility to be a light, and closeness is the fuel for our flame (Matt. 5:15-16).
The foolish virgins were not ready when the bridegroom came; they had not purchased oil. When they knocked at the door, the bridegroom said, “I don’t know you” (Matt. 25:12). That indicates a lack of relationship.
Jesus’ point in the parable is that we need to cultivate intimacy now. We don’t know when He will return, so we need to be ready (Matt. 25:13).
Let’s get practical for a moment, what are those activities that ensure intimacy? They are activities in which your heart is fully engaged with Him. When is He your whole focus? When are you attuned and attentive to His voice? When do you feel His presence? These are the times that fill your lamp with oil. The good news is that we can have as much oil as we want.
My heavenly Bridegroom, make me a continually burning flame. Oh Lord, that my family, friends, and others would be drawn to Your heat and light emanating from me. Amen!