Disruptive negligence that causes disruption

November 12, Sunday 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Wisdom of Solomon 6:12–16; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18; Gospel: Matthew 25:1–13

Even if it is impossible, the parable of the foolish and wise girl instructs us to remain vigilant at all times and to consider every possible consequence.

Due to the unpredictability of the next hour, preparedness is consistently required. It is anticipated that anticipating every conceivable outcome will spare us from atypical circumstances.

Historically, the customary venue for weddings in Israel was the residence of the betrothed. Once the wedding procession has concluded, the bridal party will proceed to the residence of the betrothed.

Several females requested to be greeted. The arrival time of the bridal party is unknown to all. The astute young lady made provisions for reserve oil in anticipation of the bridal party's delayed arrival.

In the interim, the foolish girl relied on the widely held belief that the bridal party would arrive promptly. It transpired that the sage girl's presumption was accurate. As a consequence of the foolish girls' carelessness, they were unable to attend the party. This constitutes egregious negligence.

We, too, do so. We frequently feel secure and at ease in familiar environments. We fail to adequately prepare and fortify ourselves against the most improbable eventuality that may occur.

"Be vigilant, therefore, because neither the day nor the hour is known to you." (v. 13)