The etymology of the word “opportunity” is interesting. It is a compound of “before” and “port” or “harbor.” Originally this nautical term signified ships poised before a harbor, waiting their turn to enter.
We may liken our lives to a sea voyage, and periodically we find ourselves at the mouth of a port of call. We each pilot our own vessels. The decision to take advantage of various opportunities is ours to make. Some opportunities should wisely be rejected, while others are golden.
The late A.G. Freed wrote, “The secret of all success is pre-pared-ness.” He also quoted Lincoln as having said, “I’ll prepare myself and maybe the opportunity will present itself.”
We can readily pamper ourselves when the chance arises. However, spiritually mature people look beyond themselves. “So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith” (Galatians 6:10). When was the last time you took advantage of an opportunity to help someone else?
Mr. Freed wrote of a legendary story to illustrate a point. A fair maiden was standing at the edge of a large cornfield in the early morn. A genie came and gave her these instructions. Your journey across the field is one day. As you pass along you may pluck but one ear of corn. The size of the ear you pluck will determine the amount of special power you will receive. You cannot stop and may not retrace a single step. She begins her walk, looking intently at the ears. They are full and large. But she hesitates to pluck now; eager to find one larger. Gradually she notices that the plants are becoming thinner and the ears smaller. “She disdains now to gather one of the little insignificant ears that she might see.” Evening comes, she has crossed the field, and has not taken a single ear.
Life is a brief day’s journey. Youth has many and wonderful opportunities. They grow fewer and less useful as we pass. When an opportunity to do good is before you – grasp it! Most of all, learn from the New Testament what God desires for you, and obey while you have the mind and the strength.
