Listen

“Later the other bridesmaids came and said, ‘Lord, lord, open the door for us.’

“But he replied, ‘I tell you the truth, I don’t know you.’

“Therefore, keep alert, because you don’t know the day or the hour.”

Matthew 25:11-13

Think

If you found yesterday’s passage harsh, this one might seem downright frightening – especially if you think the groom might be a symbol for Christ! For many of us, it’s comforting to think about Jesus knowing us – knowing us more than even our closest friend does, knowing us inside and out. What a terrible feeling it would be to ever hear these words: “I tell you the truth, I don’t know you” (Matthew 25:12).

What good can emerge from such difficult words? Perhaps one positive possibility is that this passage stretches us to think about a bigger way of being known by God or by those we love.

Being known – at least, in its fullest sense –  is not just about passively receiving the care of another. It is about being in relationship. It is about attention to the one who knows us. Being known should inspire our active engagement.

Megan McDermott

Pray

God, you know every part of me: every flaw, every gift, every good intention, and every bitter thought. What a great gift! Teach me to respond to that gift by drawing closer to you. Amen.

Go

Are you ready to love? Serve? Give? To seek joy in tough moments?

Go, and find out.