Text: Leviticus 24:1-4, Matthew 25:1-4
Memory Verse: “The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps” (Matthew 25:4 NIV).
God instructed that the lamps in the Tabernacle must burn continually and even commanded that it be a statute throughout Israel’s generations (Leviticus 24: 1-4). Lamps in the Scripture were never ordinary objects, they represented God’s presence, guidance, and illumination among His people. To let the lamps go out was to permit darkness, but to keep it burning was to signify ongoing fellowship with God.
A lamp is to give light and provide illumination in a place. Jesus emphasised this truth in Matthew 5:15 when He taught that no one lights a lamp and puts it under a bushel since it is meant to give light to all in the room. The Old and New Testaments agree that the lamp represents light and that light symbolises God’s presence in our lives. Likewise, a believer’s light must shine continually, revealing God’s glory to the world.
Just as a bulb cannot shine without being connected to a working socket, believers cannot shine without being connected to the true source of power. The Lord demanded pure olive oil for the lamps signifying purity, genuineness
and holiness. To keep our light burning, we must remain connected to Jesus, the genuine source of life and power. Without Him, our light will fade (John 15:5).
The parable of the wise virgins illustrated this truth. They were considered wise because they carried extra oil. In the same way, only through constant fellowship with the Holy Spirit and continuous renewal of grace can our light keep burning, ensuring we are able to meet the Lord when He comes.
Prayer Points:
1. May I not be foolish in my journey with You, O God!
2. Lord, keep me burning till the end.