In the beautiful parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1–13), Jesus gives us a powerful reminder that our time on earth is precious, and we must always be prepared to meet Him. Five virgins were wise and brought extra oil for their lamps, while the other five were foolish and came unprepared. When the bridegroom arrived, only those who were ready entered the wedding feast.

There is a profound message here for each of us: We must never put off preparing our souls for eternity. We do not know the day or the hour when the Lord will call us home or when Christ will return. What matters is not how much time we have left, but how faithfully we use the time we have been given.

Our oil is the faith we nurture, the prayers we offer, the love we share, the forgiveness we extend, and the daily effort to walk closer to Christ. These are not things we can borrow from another person or suddenly acquire when the moment arrives. They are built day by day, through a heart that continually seeks God.

Let us not become so distracted by the worries and pleasures of this world that we forget the eternal promise awaiting us. Let us live each day with purpose, kindness, gratitude, and unwavering faith. Let our hearts be filled with His light, and let our lives reflect His love.

May we never wait until the Bridegroom arrives to prepare our lamps. May we live every day ready to welcome Him, with hearts full of faith, souls filled with grace, and the joyful hope of eternity. For we know not the hour, but we know the One we are waiting for.

One of the most effective ways we can prepare to meet Jesus is by coming to Him through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In Confession, we are invited to lay down our burdens, acknowledge our sins, receive His mercy, and allow His grace to renew our hearts. There is no sin too great for God's mercy and no heart too far away for His love. Hear that again: there is no sin too great for God’s mercy! Rather than allowing shame or fear to keep us away, approach the confessional with humility and trust, knowing that Jesus is waiting to forgive us and welcome us back. If there is one thing I want you to take away from this Sunday it’s this – GO TO CONFESSION!