We often think of being prepared for the future in terms of “having our affairs in order” which includes things like retirement planning, savings, wills and trusts and things like that. We often ascribe that kind of planning to the parable of the wise and foolish bride’s maids. What this parables teaches us, however, is that spiritual preparation is at the root of our waiting and living and being ready for the unexpected. We must find the fuel to feed the fire of God’s Spirit in our own hearts and lives and that fuel is not something we can borrow from others. So let us be at work in tending to and preparing our spiritual lives.