During the last general conference, the parable of the ten virgins was referenced by speakers at least four times. As I’ve studied the parable more, I came across a quote from Elder David A. Bednar that changed how I see its message.
Perhaps, like me, you’ve wondered why the five wise virgins couldn’t have shared their oil with those who had none. Elder Bednar presents a profound answer to that question. He asks us to think of the lamps used by the virgins as lamps of testimony and the oil to be the oil of conversion. Then he says:
“Were the five wise virgins selfish and unwilling to share, or were they indicating correctly that the oil of conversion cannot be borrowed? Can the spiritual strength that results from consistent obedience to the commandments be given to another person? Can the knowledge obtained through diligent study and pondering of the scriptures be conveyed to one who is in need? Can the peace the gospel brings to a faithful Latter-day Saint be transferred to an individual experiencing adversity or great challenge? The clear answer to each of these questions is no.”
Elder Bednar’s explanation not only deepens my understanding of the parable but also of my role in sharing the gospel. I have often wondered whether I am sharing my testimony in meaningful enough ways with my family. Or whether I am being a strong enough example for my friends. I, inadvertently, put pressure on myself to put oil in others’ lamps for them—but I can’t do that.
What Is Actually Our Responsibility
While it’s impossible to share the oil of conversion, I can try to “let [my] light so shine.” The difference between sharing light and sharing oil may not always be distinct, but I do think it is important to recognize that there is a difference.
Realizing that we can share light but not oil relieves some of the pressure we may feel while ministering. Instead of worrying about whether we are doing enough, we can find joy in focusing on the simple things we can do to help others come to the Savior. Things like:
- Showing genuine, appropriate interest in others’ lives
- Watching for opportunities to serve
- Speaking about our experiences with God in natural ways
We can stop believing it is our job to make absolutely sure our loved ones have the oil of conversion. That is between them and the Savior. As Elder Bednar said:
“[It is] our individual responsibility to keep our lamp of testimony burning and to obtain an ample supply of the oil of conversion. This precious oil is acquired one drop at a time—‘line upon line [and] precept upon precept’ (2 Nephi 28:30), patiently and persistently. No shortcut is available; no last-minute flurry of preparation is possible.”
So as much as I may sometimes wish I could provide a shortcut to conversion for myself and those I love, I am learning to trust the Savior and His process. I find joy in focusing on what is in my power to do. As Doctrine and Covenants 123:17 says:
“Let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed.”
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