Lately we've really enjoyed the New Testament series they published. The kids have found a few unexpected, somewhat random, favorites. If you were to ask Ethan which is his favorite, he'd say, "the one with the ten virgins." You can imagine - I've seen it over 20 times. I love it - I've learned a lot.
So, how would you explain to your three-year-old kid what the wise virgins' extra oil represents?
Modern revelation provides a helpful verse: Doctrine and Covenants, section 45 refers to many of the signs to the times that precede the Savior's return. Verse 57 speaks of those who spiritual endure the latter-day difficulty:
57 For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day.
So, here's at least one definition of the extra oil:
- Wisdom
- Receipt of the truth
- Taking the Holy Spirit as guide
- Avoiding deception
Another, more pragmatic idea is this - those that are wise are those that do the "non-required" things:
- Personally studying the scriptures daily
- Fulfilling all our duties and striving to keep the commandments always
- Going to all three hours of church
- Attending the Saturday-evening adult session of stake conference
- Prayerfully participating in all sessions of general conference
For more thoughts, consider checking out Elder Dallin H. Oaks' great talk on this topic.
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