Men,
Does it bug you when you let an opportunity get away?
I was at the Guys Night Out at PGE Park last Friday night. It
was near the end of the game and I noticed a couple of guys
from the stands come down the stairs and walk onto the field
into our specially designated area. They tried to appear like
they belonged there, just saddled up to one of the tables and
took a seat. Well that got to me. My first thought was, I'm
going to blow the whistle on these guys, they didn't pay extra
like we did to be in these seats and they don't belong here.
So I walked over to them and asked to see the yellow wrist
bands we were issued for special seating. One guy pulled his
sleeve back and tried to act surprised, like where could that
wristband have gone. The other just looked at me, realized
they'd been caught and got up to leave. As they were walking
back up the stairs to their regular seats, I realized I had
blown it. Here was a perfect opportunity to be an ambassador
for the Lord. Here was a chance to befriend them. Here was an
opportunity to show a little grace. Here was an opportunity to
reach out to some guys who may have needed it. Instead, I
chose the legal route. It has bothered me for days.
Fortunately, one of our other men didn't take that route, when
another man and his son snuck into our area; he walked over,
started talking to them and got into a good conversation. He
accepted them, welcomed them and didn't make them feel guilty
about coming into our space. Lesson observed, hopefully lesson
learned.
Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but
as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the
days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand
what the Lord's will is. (Ephesians 5:15-17)
I
believe part of the Lord's will is for us to be ready at all
times to use any and every opportunity to show others even a
glimpse of his character, his love, his compassion, his
sacrifice, his desire to have his children come to him, abide
in him and know him. It can start with the smallest of
gestures. It could result in the greatest of results; someone
getting introduced to the Savior.
What will you do with your next opportunity?
Ron
Please join the rest of the men in the Prayer Room this Sunday
at 10:35 A.M.
