NOTES for Mat 25:1-13
The meaning of this parable is expressed in its final word, “Keep watch,” yet all ten virgins fell asleep! So it is not simply a matter of staying awake. Each of us goes through periods of spiritual laxity and lack of focus; not everyone is capable of burning in spirit all the time. The point, rather, is that in addition to the burning lamp of faith, a person needs a certain “reserve of strength,” a spiritual resource that will help him, when necessary, to get back on his feet and tend his fading lamp. This is not some special strength, genius, or vigor; all these are gifts that only God can give. But there is something that depends mainly on us: fidelity, honesty before ourselves and God, and the desire to be with Him no matter what.