Introduction: There are two important proposals for being a LIGHTHOUSE. The first is to remember JESUS CHRIST is the LIGHTHOUSE! Therefore, will you let Him be your LIGHTHOUSE? The second proposal is: Will you be the KEEPER of the LIGHTHOUSE?

 

Interesting to note, that after it was built, which included constructing a means of light that would shine a beam that extended for miles, it was discovered that there needed to be KEEPERS of the LIGHTHOUSE. One of the families, named the Jacksons, faithfully made sure on a daily basis that the LIGHTHOUSE was working properly. With the right amount of oil in the lamps, it kept it BURNING. One error would cause a ship to wreck on the jagged rocks that protruded out of the water. With this in mind, consider being a LIGHTHOUSE CHRISTIAN. Also, remember that a LIGHTHOUSE gives ships and boats guidance. Plus, it warns them.

 

 

All the virgins needed to be ready for the bridegroom’s return. Actually, they would be the wedding guests. In Jewish customs, the wedding guests would hear the wedding cry and trim their wicks to attend the wedding feast. Yet, in this parable which Jesus told (describing Israel, not the Church)—remember, technically speaking, Matthew’s gospel was written to the Jews—Israel. Later, in the book of Acts, the Church was established. Nevertheless, we can draw some practical conclusions from this passage of Scripture, even though it would be—chronologically speaking—during the tribulation. The Rapture has taken place and the King of the Jews, Jesus Christ (one of the purposes for Matthew’s gospel), would be preparing the Israelites (5 wise virgins) to go into the Kingdom—millennium reign—as wedding guests to join the marriage supper of the Lamb. They had to be ready. Even though this message is to Israel, it is also a message to the Church. We are the bride of Christ, and therefore need to be ready when He comes, as described in 1 Thess. 4:16–18 (a different event called the rapture, not the second coming). Are you getting ready? What do you need to do in order to get ready?

 

2. Will you be the KEEPER of the LIGHTHOUSE? (Matt 25:2–13) – “And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”

 

Did you notice that the “FOOLISH virgins” did not prepare? They did not have oil in their lamps! Why? Because they procrastinated and consequently were left behind. The door was shut! How many people today are putting off getting right with God, thinking they have plenty of time? Foolish!! We are not promised tomorrow. Are you keeping oil in your lamp? If so, will you help others get prepared as well?

 

Conclusion: A Lighthouse gives guidance. A Lighthouse warns. A Lighthouse shines a bright light. Are you shining a bright light for others to see their way through a dark world? Be a Lighthouse!

 

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese