This sermon, on Matthew 25:1-13, is the second of a three-part series on saintly living. In our baptisms, God claims each of our lives and names us as one of God's "saints." God calls each of us to live out our baptisms by reflecting Christ's love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness.

This sermon will be looking at how saints wait for God. Jesus tells the story of the Ten Bridesmaids to teach his followers the importance of waiting for God's return. Five Bridesmaids were wise and brought enough extra oil, in case their master was delayed. Five were foolish and didn't give it much thought. They and their lamps were not ready. The wedding feast continued without their presence.

The parable raises a question of faithful waiting. How do saints wait for God? How do we remain awake and focused with oil in our lamps to spare? How do we keep ourselves alert?