Primary 121 - Virgins, Talents, and Sheep



If we gave a test, what method would help you the most? A date and time of the test, small quizzes every day, or perhaps a final that was due but we gave no date or time of it only that your two teachers would wear matching ties on that day and also to let you know it was soon one or the other would wear a tie?

The Lord has a test but we do not know when it will come to pass. We are asked to prepare by prayerfully reading and studying the scriptures, listening to living Apostles, constantly seeking repentance and being vigilant in renewing our covenants. This test is not of knowledge or feats of strength but of faith, hope, joy, charity; things you work and build. Above all we need to have faith in Christ and know Him. Do not mistake the notion of knowing of Him but know Him. What's the difference?

The Savior have three parables the first was of ten virgins. Each was waiting for the groom to invite them to a party. The didn't know when the party started only that they should be prepared. The night grew late and they heard that the groom was coming. 

So they tried their lamps and toped their oil only five had spare oil. The others said "Hey we need some" and the reply was "no but you can buy some". They left and the groom came and the five went to the party.

The Savior wanted us to know this story was not about oil but spiritual preparation. Ten virgins oil is about convertion and our relationship with the  Holy Ghost. This is not about toilet paper or food or water. We cand lend noodles, flour, or light but our experiences with the Lord, they are personal but they light us on the inside. Our relationship with Jesus or Heavenly Father can not be given to another. You might share your testimony but cannot give it away or in pieces. It's like an echo in a canyon. It doesn't stay.

You keep your talents like the servants but are you increasing them? When the Savior talked about the three servants, the three was given talents according to their abilities. The first two gave their all and doubled their talents and kept them when they were rewarded. They were given stewardship equal to their master and when asked about their Lord they spoke of His compassion. The last guy made a preconceived notion and his talent got no use. He took no risks, and used an excuse when asked why the talent was not increased. 

The relationship with our Master means so much. How we perceive the Master is how we are going to treat His gifts or talents. We have been given so much and when we share it to others, it comes back with increase. 

The final parable was sheep and goats. They are roughly the same size and weight. They can graze together and cause little trouble.  The difference, is  the goat is course in skin, muscle and behavior. So inside and out, physically and spiritually they are not the Lords. They do not come when called. 

Unlike goats, the sheep are subservient, patient, listen for the Shepard and hear their name. Their wool is soft and meat succulent. The two are different though they seem the same. The Lord will know those that gave freely and harden not their souls, shared and listened. Those people will know His face, recognize His voice.

Jesus is coming tomorrow... When is tomorrow? Think about it. Every day is tomorrow. It is a probationary test. Work hard to be soft in your spirit, know Jesus and be prepared. Don't know of Jesus or believe in Jesus, know Him and believe Him. 

Have a great week guys. We love you.

Challenges 
1) Read Matthew 1; 24-25; Mark 12-13; Luke 21
2) What can you do to prepare for the test? Pray for guidance and as you read your scriptures and ponder you will receive your answers. Record you experiences.




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