In Matthew 25:1–13, Jesus shared a parable of ten virgins to further highlight the importance of watchfulness. In the context of a village wedding, virgins or bridesmaids were awaiting the arrival of the bridegroom to help escort his bride home for the final celebration. Some had prepared for the potential delay of the bridegroom while others hadn’t. Upon his arrival, the latter discovered that their torches had burned out and needed oil before joining the torchlit procession. Running off to purchase oil, they arrived at the celebration only to find that the door had been locked and the bridegroom unwilling to let them in. “Therefore keep watch,” Jesus directed. Showing up late meant missing it altogether. Serving leaders prepare for the best and for the worst by constantly replenishing their internal resources via rest and activities that feed their souls. When opportunities present themselves or crises occur, it’s simply too late to prepare.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

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KEY QUESTIONS: Do I tend to plan ahead or do I decide my course of action as I go along? For what types of events or possibilities should I be better prepared? When might contingency plans be excessive or unnecessary?