How Much Oil Is In Your Lamp?
Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. ~ MATTHEW 25: 2-4 (NIV)
My daily regimen includes reading through the Bible. I am currently in the beginning books of the Old Testament. I see many references to olive oil. I did the obvious and searched the internet. My reference source is Daily Bible Study, www.keyway.ca, “Olive Oil” by Wayne Blank.
Olive oil is still used today, and it symbolizes the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God’s gift to us that enables us to carry out God’s work in this world.
This article identifies uses of olive oil in ancient days. It was used for many reasons: (1) to light lamps, (2) to anoint someone or something for a special purpose, (3) to be a portion of the offerings made by the Israelites, (4) to assist with medicinal needs, and (5) to prepare deceased bodies for burial.
As I reflect upon those uses, I see that we might apply uses of olive oil in a symbolic way to our daily lives. With olive oil representing the Holy Spirit: (1) Our path is illuminated to show us the way. (2) We are anointed and set apart for a purpose. (3) We offer ourselves to others and to the Lord for His service. (4) The Holy Spirit helps heal us from harmful feelings that may result from the trials and tribulations encountered along the way. (5) God prepares us for the ending part of our journey to heaven so that we are in a state that is acceptable to Him.
Olive oil was used in the “Parable of the Ten Maidens” found in Matthew 25. Five of the maidens were prepared, and five were not. The resource references a link to another article entitled, “How Much Oil Is In Your Lamp?” We need to be equipped to carry out God’s purpose for us in this world. We need the Holy Spirit dwelling within us to direct our way. Since Lent is a time of sober reflection, we may want to use this time to check to see how full our lamps are.
Dear Lord, help us to use this time to ensure we have enough oil in our lamps to carry out your plans. In Jesus’ name, amen.
LACY HAYNICZ, TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH