Be Ready | Matthew 25:1-13

Ashland Church of Christ
Dec 27, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Dec 28, 2025

Guest Speaker: Pastor Collin Brennan

December 28, 2025

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OVERVIEW

As we closed out the year, Pastor Collin Brennan invited our church family to reflect on a simple but urgent question: Are we ready?

Following Christmas and on the edge of a new year, this message looked not backward, but forward—to the promise of Christ’s return. Drawing from Isaiah 62 and Matthew 25, Pastor Collin walked us through Jesus’ parable of the ten virgins, reminding us that spiritual readiness isn’t about appearances—it’s about what’s burning within.

Just as the lamps were useless without oil, faith without a living, daily relationship with Jesus leaves us unprepared. The oil, representing the Holy Spirit, cannot be borrowed, shared, or rushed at the last moment. Readiness is personal, intentional, and cultivated over time.

This message wasn’t meant to create fear—but hope. Jesus isn’t returning as a warning; He’s returning as a Bridegroom, inviting His people into celebration. The call is not panic, but preparation.

Three Takeaways for the New Year

Keep Your Lamp Full Stay rooted in God’s Word, prayer, and daily dependence on Christ.
Stay Vigilant Faith isn’t just for Sundays. Make daily time with God a priority—even if it starts with just five minutes.
Walk in Community Your faith is personal, but it was never meant to be lived alone. Grow alongside others through groups, service, and fellowship.

A New Year Challenge

As a bonus challenge, Pastor Collin encouraged the church to read the entire Bible in one year—just 15 minutes a day. Whether reading straight through, chronologically, or using a guided plan like The Bible Recap, the goal is simple: get into the Word consistently.

As we step into a new year, let this be our resolution—not “new year, new me,” but a ready heart. Filled with faith. Anchored in truth. Watching with hope.

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” — Matthew 25:13

Year in Review

📅 Upcoming Message – Sunday, January 4, 2025

Speaker: Pastor Collin Brennan

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Go Deeper

These Bible reading plans are more than just daily devotionals—they’re invitations to go deeper in your faith. Whether you’re exploring the wisdom of Proverbs, the bold challenge of James, or the redemptive story of Samson, each study is designed to draw you closer to the heart of God.

Take your next step:

Reflect with journal prompts
Talk it out in small group discussions
Pray through the lessons
Apply the truths to your everyday life

Don’t just read the Word—live it. Dive into one of these studies and let God transform your mind, strengthen your walk, and equip you to follow Jesus more faithfully.