Lost Opportunities


I know that probably all of you can relate to this scenario. The day starts like every other day. You get up in the morning and begin your daily routine and then you get the phone call that stops you dead in your tracks. Such was the case last Tuesday morning. A dear, sweet, young man in our church lost his battle with depression. He had been with our church since the launch and continued to remain faithful. With a congregation of over 1200 people it is impossible to let everyone know what had happened so as it was announced to the congregation on Sunday you could hear reactions from all over the auditorium. The worship team started worship and a set of drums sat vacant as a tribute and memorial to the one who had left us. 

At times like this we have lots of questions. Questions that we may never know the answers to. One thing however is for sure and that is that we have a loving God that can heal broken hearts. Many times, we heard the questions “How did we not see the hurt? How could we have missed it?  If only we had reached out to him.” 

This week has caused me to think about Women’s Ministries.  I have been asked many times lately why we changed our name to Women’s Ministries instead of staying with Women’s Missions. Yes, missions is our focus but it is very difficult for a woman to think about others when she is hurting inside. Our ministry in our churches and our communities should be to women. Women facing all kinds of struggles. Oh, that we could be more concerned. Oh, that we could love others a little deeper. I thought about the times that I have asked someone how they are and not really that concerned as to what the answer was. I am also embarrassed to say how many times I have asked certain individuals how they were and prayed that they wouldn’t really tell me because I didn’t think I had time for that at that moment. 

My prayer for us as women is that we learn to look in the eyes of those we speak to. Learn to listen. Be observant of those around us. And lastly, listen to the Holy Spirit as he speaks. I can’t tell you how many missed opportunities I have had because I heard what He said to me but did not move.

I was reading this week from Psalm 46 which says “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So, we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge……………Be still and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world. The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us: The God of Israel is our fortress.”

May that be the hope that we give.