Ten Virgins

All ten virgins looked and acted alike; the impostors were good imitations. The only difference was the oil that no one could see. This is terrifying, for when we look inwardly we see our sin and unworthiness. Where is our own oil? We can't see it. So the wise cry out (they ever cry out), Go to them that sell, and buy. Where? Hear the Prophet who says, Come, buy without money and without price. Here in the holy place is an infinitely valuable Gift, purchased with the lifeblood of the Savior. Here in the preaching of the Gospel, at the altar, and at the font: here we receive this Gift freely, and  the forgiveness of sins. When we look to Christ we have no doubt of the value in his blood; all doubts vanish when we behold him and not ourselves. And here is wisdom; here we gain the precious oil of everlasting salvation. Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! Sermon for the Last Sunday after Trinity.