July 31

Prepare to meet thy God. — AMOS iv. 12.

They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them; but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. — MATT. xxv. 3, 4.

LAMPS, but no oil! There was preparation to meet the bridegroom, and confidence, but a vain confidence, in an insufficient preparation. When the bridegroom came, the foolish virgins were left behind and the door was shut. We who call ourselves Christians have made our preparation and are waiting for Christ to come. We all have lamps, which represent what is external in our Christianity, whether it be rites, or creed, or works of charity, or morality, or zeal for our church. But have we oil, that true spiritual consecration of the soul which alone can fill outward acts with light and life?

The lamps may be of various shapes and patterns, but the oil must be the same in all. Whether, in burning, it shines out as repentance or faith or good works or worship, its essence is love, pure unselfish love to God and man. Where this love is wanting, there is no true spiritual life and no sufficient preparation to meet our Lord when he comes.

George Washburn

Beware, my soul, take thou good heed lest thou in slumber lie, And, like the five, remain without, and knock, and vainly cry; But watch, and bear thy lamp undimmed, and Christ shall gird thee on His own bright wedding-robe of light, the glory of the Son.

G. MOULTRIE.