Dear Doves,

I wanted to comment on the 10 Virgins as people have been discussing that in recent letters.
I believe the parable of the 5 foolish virgins and 5 wise virgins, in context is speaking not of the church before the rapture, but of those who are going through the Tribulation.  Some will be wise and will be watching for Christ's second coming when He returns as the Bridegroom with His bride.
Matthew 24-25, Jesus is speaking of the signs of His literal second coming to earth, not the rapture.  Matthew 25:10 (NASB), "And while they were going away to make the purchase, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with Him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut."  The 5 foolish virgins were left out of the wedding feast, not the wedding... The virgins are not the Bride.   I believe for all scripture to fit, we will understand that the wedding guests are the Tribulation saints.  Notice it is not until Revelation 19:9 that we are told, "And he said to me, 'Write, Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb...'"...The marriage has already happened (the rapture), but the marriage feast, I believe, happens when the Bridegroom returns with His Bride, also in Revelation chapter 19.
In the traditions of the ancient Jewish wedding customs, the bride and groom were in the wedding chamber 7 days (think 7 yrs. of Tribulation), and then came out of the Bridal Chamber (See Joel 2:16) to attend the wedding feast with the guests.

Blessings,
Leisa