Roadblock or Rejoice? 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 Speaks to the Sandwich Generation

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Don’t you hate roadblocks? Whether it’s because of road construction, a train crossing, or a misparked car, it can definitely be frustrating, can’t it? Then again, 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 reminds us that perhaps there’s another side to that roadblock…

Now that my 5th metatarsal fracture is getting better, and I am again able to take a walk the regular way – although very slowly, I am trying hard to stay more active and start exercising more regularly. Recently, I was visiting a friend who was off at work so I decided to go “exploring.” By exploring, I meant I was walking around a couple of blocks while taking pictures of roses and other lovely flowers and trees.

On the way, I saw a tall and lovely Magnolia tree. I was rather disappointed, though, not to see any blossoms. It’s spring and there are usually lots of flowers, but not this time. “Ah well,” I thought, and kept on walking. Further up the block, though, I was surprised to find that construction workers were digging in the road across the street and had blocked it all off. I had hit a roadblock and could go no further.

Somewhat frustrated, I turned around and retraced my steps. As I again approached that Magnolia tree I was thrilled to see the other side had lots of blossoms. What an unexpected pleasure! Isn’t life like that so often? We hit a roadblock, get bummed out, and maybe even complain instead of praising God like we are supposed to. If we instead choose to praise, we will have a happier heart, a better attitude, and maybe even clearer eyes that might spot something interesting we would have missed without the roadblock – like lovely flowers, seeing a friend, or just a fresh perspective. Then again, we may never know what we missed, thanks to that roadblock, like a nasty accident!

I was talking to a gentleman recently who was helping me with my car and we started talking about just that subject. He told me the story of how he and his wife were driving on the freeway when all of a sudden they had to stop unexpectedly due to a problem. They exited the freeway, went to a gas station, and dealt with the situation. Then they were able to get back on the road. A few miles up, they came upon a nasty accident between a big rig and a small car which was totaled. The real shocker  was when they recognized the small car as one they had been right behind, until they needed to get off the freeway. He is convinced, as am I, that God used that delay to protect them. I also think God used him in that situation to pray for the victims as they drove by! Particularly since I also learned that everyone involved walked away safely from that accident. What a blessing from God!

I’ll tell you one thing. That story and my Magnolia tree are definitely encouraging me to stay focused on the same encouraging and inspirational Bible verses I keep sharing with my grandkids:

Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

It’s a great lesson to share with the grandkids, that’s for sure. It’s also just as applicable to us in our lives as members of the Baby Boomers Generation – caring for elderly parents, working with those grandkids, and taking walks – all of which can have roadblocks. Isn’t it wonderful to know, though, that following God’s will means God is in control and those roadblocks really are there for a good reason. With all we have going on in the Sandwich Generation issues of life, we really need those encouraging Bible verses, don’t we? 🙂