Opportunity or obstacle, the choice is yours

Recently I read a story found on the Internet about a church youth group traveling the southern United States in a large motor home.

All was well until they came upon a large string of stopped vehicles. There was no exit. Whatever the problem, an accident or road work, they could do nothing but sit. Some of the youths grew restless and were bored.

Others came up with a plan. Going to as many vehicles as possible, they offered the use of the bathroom in the motor home. Several grateful people responded to the opportunity afforded by the thoughtfulness.

As time on the “concrete parking lot” continued, another opportunity was developed. A flatbed truck was in the delayed line of vehicles. Youths from the group asked the driver if they could play their musical instruments and sing on the bed of the truck. He approved. Soon the youth band was “on stage” making a joyful sound.

It could be said these young people made pleasantness out of an obstacle. “They sang where they sat” — much like a preacher named Paul and his associate, Silas, who “sang where they sat” and brought refreshing and release to an unpleasant circumstance (Acts 16:25).

The Rev. Paul Killingsworth serves as pastor at Yuma First Assembly.