Two stories, one message

There are two stories that Jesus told during his early ministry that communicate a very important truth, that many people miss.  The first story is that of the ten virgins. In summary, there were ten virgins who were waiting for the bridegroom, for a wedding they were to be in.  All ten of them were looking forward to his arrival, but five were foolish and failed to stay prepared.  When the time came and he arrived, they weren't ready and had to stay behind.
The second story, that of the rich guy who planned a big party and invited many people.  For the party, he provided special clothes for all of his guests.  As the party was taking place and the host was floating about, he noticed one of his guests was clad in old, regular clothes, not the special party clothes.  The host had him thrown out, for not following party protocol and for snubbing the host's gracious provision.
Both stories tell the communicate the same point. Our salvation is all about what God has done for us. The only reason we are saved is because of his gracious gift.  But at the same time, we too have responsibilities.  We must make use of what God has provided for us and be responsible.  God's gift is all about grace, but we have the responsibility to make use of his provision and prepare ourselves for him.  To not do so is an insult and lazy.  Like responding in love to our lover, anything else would be rejection.
Let us learn to make use of those things that God has provided for too prepare is us for a glorious eternity, namely, the sacraments, repentance and perseverance.  We can respond with no less.