The King will answer them, “Most certainly I tell you, because you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”
–Matthew 25:40
Matthew 25 contains three parables: parables of the ten virgins, the talents, and the sheep and goats.
In these parables, Jesus laid out three steps to Heaven.
First, like the virgins with their oil lamps, we need to continuously keep the full presence of the Holy Spirit with us.
Second, we need to use the talents God has given us to their fullest extent to win more people to Christ.
Finally, we need to walk with God, emulating Christ. If we want to live with God in Heaven forever, we must recognize Him amid the suffering and injustice we see here on Earth.
Jesus tells us that our lives can influence others around us. We are to always think of what God wants us to do, listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit, and — with all our talents — serve others as we serve God. Then we will be as one living in the Heavenly kingdom.
If this becomes your habit, then you won’t even know how much you influence and benefit others. Thus, you can experience Heaven. And, in time, the eternal Heaven will be given to you accordingly. Praise God!
Prayer
Lord in Heaven, Please help me to listen to the whispering voice of the Holy Spirit. Today, let me use the talents You gave me to benefit those who may never return the favor to me. Help me live today as if I live in Heaven. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Reflection
What can I do to live out the lessons Jesus taught in each of these three parables?