Obstacles or Opportunities
Hurricanes Katrina and Rita have certainly brought challenges to those of us living along the Gulf Coast. Undoubtedly, some are facing greater challenges than others, however the past two months have given each of us opportunities to reach out to help those in need.
A Pastor friend of mine told me that after hurricane Rita, he and some of the men from the church were the first ones to go into East Texas with supplies to help the victims. He further told me that along the road they had to get out of their trucks and cut up huge trees that were blocking the road keeping them from reaching those in need. Those trees were obstacles to their opportunities.
How often do we come upon obstacles to our opportunities only to think that it must not be God’s will for me to do this because there is an obstacle? We might call it a “closed door.” I understand there are times when God closes doors. However, I also understand that not every obstacle is a closed door. Some obstacles are there to keep you from fulfilling an opportunity to serve the Lord.
My Pastor friend didn’t let those trees keep him from his opportunity to serve. He knew God had a higher purpose. So they got out the chain saws and made kindling out of those huge obstacles! After making their way to East Texas they have been able to minister to many families providing food and water and other essentials. I know that they have been a blessing to those they have touched. However, I also know they have been blessed because they did not allow obstacles to keep them from opportunities to serve the Lord.
When you see an obstacle make sure you ask the Lord why the obstacle is there before you simply assume it is a closed door. I am certain the opportunities are greater than the obstacles.
I dear friend of mine has created a media production in honor of the victims of Katrina and Rita. It has been a source of blessing for me and I know it will be for you as well.
God bless you,
Pastor Gary
