As the Church stands on the threshold of Great Lent, Rev. Fr. Abey George reflects on Christ’s urgent call to watchfulness and preparation, drawing from the Gospel’s sobering imagery and the parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25). While words like judgment and “gnashing of teeth” may sound frightening, this homily reminds us that Christ speaks not to terrify, but to awaken us — to keep us attentive, focused, and spiritually sober.

Through vivid and relatable examples, Fr. Abey explains that true watchfulness is not fear, but right priorities. The lamp represents the soul — something every person possesses — but without oil, it cannot give light. The oil, he teaches, is the life of good works, love, forgiveness, compassion, humility, and relationship with God. External religious observance alone — fasting, prayer, church attendance — is not enough if the heart remains unrepentant and unchanged.

This homily challenges us to examine not only what we do outwardly, but how we prepare inwardly: cleaning the house of the soul, restoring broken relationships, casting out pride and stubbornness, and cultivating virtue. As we prepare for Christ’s Second Coming and for the Paschal joy of the Resurrection, we are called to fill our lamps now — before the door is closed.

A timely and powerful message that invites every believer to enter Great Lent with focus, humility, and readiness, so that we may stand among the wise and enter the Bridegroom’s chamber with joy.