Jesus told the parable of the ten bridesmaids as fair warning on what he expects to be our readiness for his return. His teaching and this message help us understand what it is that God is inviting us into and what it is to live in preparation for the coming kingdom of God. Christ-followers have a responsibility not only to ready themselves, but also to help prepare the hearts of people in their spheres of influence-home, work, recreation, whatever-for that new kind of kingdom. What we do in Christ really matters, and we need to make every day count.