4 x 6 Plan | Read: Matthew 25:1-13 & Philippians 1:1-11
“But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked.. (Matthew 25:10)
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My wife and kids would be the first to tell you that nothing distracts me. If I’m reading a book or watching a how-to video on Youtube, someone can be screaming on fire and I wouldn’t notice because I’m locked in. It can be a great thing at times but it can also be dangerous. Like the time I told my two young kids to go play with their brand new hatchets outside while I finished up something (you’ll never read that advice in parent books). But the biggest problem I have is that I can be completely present (physically) but also completely absent (mentality). There’s always another fire to put out or something or someone that needs to be followed up with.
Let me ask you, how often do you find yourself fully present in the moments of your life, embracing the gift of now? My wife is truly the Jedi master of this! Life is filled with moments, both big and small, that shape who we are and where we’re headed. But how often do we truly pause and embrace the present moment? In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells a parable of ten bridesmaids waiting for the bridegroom. While some were prepared with enough oil for their lamps, they all shared one common experience: waiting.
Waiting can be a challenging place to be. We often find ourselves looking ahead, anticipating the future or dwelling on the past. But in doing so, we miss out on the beauty and significance of the present moment. The wise bridesmaids in the parable were not only prepared but also present. They embraced the now, fully engaging in the wait with anticipation and joy. They didn’t allow their waiting to become a mere time of passivity but an opportunity for growth and connection. In our own lives, we can easily get caught up in the busyness and distractions, constantly chasing after the next thing, and forgetting to be fully present. We may find ourselves consumed by worries about the future or regrets from the past, missing out on the blessings and lessons right in front of us.
But Jesus invites us to a different way of living—a life of presence. He wants us to be fully engaged in the moments we’re given, to savor the joys and navigate the challenges with Him by our side. It’s in the now that we experience His love, His grace, and His power.Being present doesn’t mean ignoring the past or neglecting to plan for the future. It means consciously choosing to anchor ourselves in the present moment, embracing the now as a gift from God. When we cultivate a habit of presence, we begin to see the beauty and opportunities that lie before us. So, let us choose to be fully present today.
Thoughts on Philippians 1:1-11
Chained to a secret addiction. Trapped in a dark depression. Feeling the weight of past mistakes or the effects of a failing marriage.When everything seems to be falling apart, and we are certain we have let God down, grace intervenes and reminds us the story isn’t over yet. It’s only an intermission. Paul’s life was certainly not going the way he had planned when he found himself alone in a prison cell. Yet, in Philippians 1:4-6 he wrote, “I always pray with joy… being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.”
Action Steps
Bible: What is God showing me? What am I going to do about it?
Bless: Serve one person through word, action, or gift today.
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