Here's a story of ten virgins
Who went out to meet the Groom.
Five of them were foolish
Though their beauty was in bloom.

They took no oil with their lamps
To see them through the night.
They thought they'd be alright and ready.

The other five were very wise
And made provision for the night
They carried extra oil
And their lamps were burning bright.

Then one by one they fell asleep,
The Bridegroom had delayed.
Then there came a messenger who said,

He is coming, His waiting bride to take,
He's coming, the choice is yours to make.
Come and greet Him, He'll soon be at the gate,
Will you meet Him before you realize that it's too late'

They all arose and trimmed their lamps,
Knowing they would soon see Him.
The foolish then discovered
That their lamps were growing dim.

Share with us your oil,
We've run out of our supply!
Then the wise would answer them and cry,

We're so sorry, there's not enough to take,
We're sorry, the choice was yours to make.
Now go hurry, He'll soon be at the gate,
Now you worry, although you knew
That it was getting late.

While they went to make the purchase,
That was when the Bridegroom came,
The ready ones went with Him
To the feast and wore His name.

The others then returned and said,
Lord let us come in too,
But He answered, I do not know you.

They were sorry, don't make the same mistake,
So sorry, the choice is yours to make.
Come and greet Him, He'll soon be at the gate.
Will you meet Him before you've realized
That it's too late'

Lyrics Copyright 1977 Phil Keaggy