God’s Strengthening Word: Singing for JoySample

Introduction

Matthew 25:1–30: Today’s reading continues Jesus’s apocalyptic (or “judgment”) discourse. Here, Jesus describes the kingdom of heaven by telling two parables—one about ten young women or bridesmaids and another about three servants. Note: “apocalyptic writings” (from the Greek apokalypsis, meaning “revelation” or “disclosure”) refers to accounts of visions or prophecies of the end times or of the age to come.

Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 25:13 GNT

And Jesus concluded, “Watch out, then, because you do not know the day or the hour.”

Reflect

Yesterday’s reading included Jesus exhorting his followers to be ready for his coming. Today’s reading also consists of a similar exhortation. What can you learn from the actions of the ten women and the three servants in today’s reading? What are the consequences of not being ready for Jesus’s return? In what ways can you “watch” and “be ready” for Jesus?

Pray

Lord Jesus, teach me to be a faithful disciple—always watchful, ready, and obedient to your will. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Matthew 25:31–46: God judges the nations of the world.