In the first reading, Paul is not out to say anything offensive to the Thessalonians when he says “fornication” and “selfish lust” are wrong. Among other things, God made us as sexual beings, but sex is a holy act only in the sanctity of marriage. And whenever we forget this, we will turn to immorality and give in to lust that will destroy relationships. Like the five wise bridesmaids in the Gospel parable, let us keep the fire of holiness burning bright in our lives. It would be foolish to let this fire burn out for lack of prayer. Because, when the fire of God’s love is quenched by our carelessness, then the fire of lust and immorality will arise and destroy us.