It was during a college mission trip that our bus got a flat tire. Unlike a regular vehicle, there’s apparently more involved in changing a tire on a big school bus. Stranded on the side of the country road, we had to wait. It was apparent that we would probably miss our flight out of Kansas City, and the moment it went flat we all knew we were doomed. Except one guy.
As soon as we all felt the tire go and we pulled over, I sensed fear immediately grip the group. Suddenly, an overly zealous student shouted out in his Norwegian accent, “Flat Tire! Hallelujah!”
It didn’t set well with my inner Archie Bunker. I’m a genuine skeptic at times, and I’ve been guilty at times of having a too-critical spirit. But the lesson I learned from this guy have stayed with me for over 20 years.
A critic sees obstacles, faults, and reasons for failure. A leader sees opportunities, options, and reasons to succeed.
Yes, we missed our flight. But a nearby church let us hang out there while things got figured out. While there, we helped them out with some projects and were a blessing to them. Different churches took us in for the night and fed us, and amazingly we were able to get the whole team on another plane the next morning. Would you believe that they had the exact number of seats we needed? For a KC to LA flight?
Long story short, our Norwegian friend saw an opportunity to praise God, and everything worked out fine. The unplanned delay built the team’s unity, allowed us to see God’s provision in the midst of difficulty, and gave us all a lasting testimony of God’s sovereignty.
It’s easy to shout hallelujah in church. But it’s not easy to praise God when the pipes break, the car breaks down, your job is lost, etc. Lately I’ve been facing my own storms, and God reminded me of this fellow’s courage to praise Him as soon as an obstacle arose. I’m encouraged by that guy’s words. Are you?
“[insert your problem here]. Hallelujah!”
Now you try it!
