Scripture Reflection - November 8, 2026

Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

Wisdom 6:12-16 - Thessalonians 4:13-18    - Mathew 25:1-13

Keep Tending the Lamp of Faith 

There is a story of two rabbis debating: What is more important—the oil or the flame? The first rabbi insisted, “It is the oil! Without oil, the flame cannot continue to burn.”

The second rabbi disagreed. “No, it is the flame! What good is oil if it never gives light?”

They debated back and forth until a third rabbi, who had been listening quietly, spoke:

“My friends, you are both right. The oil sustains the flame, and the flame gives purpose to the oil. We need both. And someone must keep tending the lamp.”

In today's Gospel, all ten virgins carried lamps. All ten waited for the bridegroom. But only five, the wise ones, brought enough oil to keep their lamps burning through the long wait. The difference was not in their initial enthusiasm but in their readiness to sustain the light.

Our first reading reminds us that Wisdom is radiant and unfading, and that she is found by those who seek her. In fact, Wisdom meets those who are watching for her. God is already seeking us, even as we seek God. But we must remain attentive, with hearts open to recognize God's presence. Christ, the Wisdom of God, comes into our midst every day—in the people we encounter, in unexpected moments of grace, and in the quiet movements of our hearts. Are we ready to welcome him?

The parable of the ten virgins reminds us that we need to keep tending the lamp—replenishing the oil and trimming the wick so the flame burns brightly. In the same way, we must tend our faith, keeping it nourished, renewed, and alive.

The flame of faith is not meant to burn for ourselves alone. We tend the flame so that we can share its light with others. The Gospel reminds us that faithfulness is not simply about beginning with enthusiasm but about remaining attentive, hopeful, and ready for the many ways Christ comes into our lives—both today and tomorrow.

As you reflect on today's Gospel, ask yourself: What in my life needs tending so that the flame of Christ's love and wisdom may burn more brightly in me and shine more generously through me?

Sr. Terry Rickard, OP