Welcome to this time of worship.
- Our service begins with the singing of one of two hymns, the more contemporary song being found here and the traditional hymn being here.
- The video and audio-only versions of the service are both located above.
- Following the blessing you are again invited to join in the singing of either a contemporary song or a traditional hymn.
Leading in worship today are: Marilyn, Earl, Fiona and Robin.
To view the sermon only, copy & paste this link into your browser: https://youtu.be/_uT0JYamRRI
KEEP THE LAMPS BURNING: LIVING AWAKE IN THE PRESENT CHRIST
(Matthew 25:1–13)
SUMMARY
In the parable of the ten young women, Jesus invites us to see the Kingdom of God not merely as a future reality but as a present feast already unfolding around us. The wise women are those who remain awake to God's presence in everyday life, noticing beauty, practicing compassion, welcoming others, and participating in acts of love and reconciliation. The lamp symbolizes the light of Christ, the living presence of God woven throughout creation and revealed in the risen Christ. The challenge of the parable is not simply to be ready for some future arrival, but to recognize that Christ is already present, calling us to live attentively and consciously in this moment.
The oil for the lamps represents the spiritual practices and inner habits that sustain awareness of God's presence: prayer, worship, gratitude, kindness, silence, and mercy. These cannot be snatched at the last minute but are cultivated over a lifetime of faithful living. The closing of the door is not God's rejection but the consequence of spiritual sleepiness and distraction. Especially on Remembrance Day, we connect this call to wakefulness with the sacrifices of those who acted courageously for others. Their example invites us actively to become people of peace, reconciliation, and self-giving love, tending the flame of God's presence within us and helping to heal a divided world. Christ stands at the door of this very moment, inviting us to enter the feast that is already before us.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
Where have you experienced glimpses of God's kingdom breaking into ordinary life recently, and how did those moments invite you to greater awareness or gratitude?
What practices help keep the "lamp" of your heart burning, and where might God be calling you to be more intentional in tending your spiritual life?
In what ways do distraction, anxiety, regret, or busyness prevent you from recognizing Christ's presence in the present moment?
Where do you see opportunities to become an agent of peace, reconciliation, or compassionate presence, helping to "re-member" what has been divided in your relationships, community, or world?
