I am still smiling, somewhat in disbelief from my little photo shoot that happened a few minutes ago.  Several months back I saw a turkey at someone’s front door and took a picture of this unusual scene. This prompted me to write about surprises and opportunities that often await us, lurking outside our doors – and our need to respond to them spiritually.

I decided to title my next book (currently in the editing process) “When There’s a Turkey at Your Door.”  The book is meant to entertain, but more importantly meant to help and encourage the reader to apply God’s word to real life happenings.   Unfortunately, the photo I took that day was not sharp, and can’t be used for a book cover.  Since then, I have been carrying my “point and shoot” camera in my purse…because you never know when a turkey may be at your door. 🙂

Yes,  I secretly prayed to get a new opportunity for a photo, so wanted to be prepared at all times – all the while, knowing that the odds of this every happening again would be slim to none. However, I decided I would be prepared –  just in case.

While driving home about an hour ago I saw a turkey heading toward a house.  After stopping my car in the road, I quietly emerged from the driver’s seat – camera in hand.  I tiptoed toward the turkey, while going back and forth behind some stranger’s parked truck so I could maneuver the turkey toward the door. I tiptoed; he tiptoed and…Voila…A turkey at the door! In fact, he went to the back door and the front door.

I got back in the car quite encouraged, and then thought of the following scriptures about “preparedness.”

2 Tim. 2:21
If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.

2 Tim. 4:2
Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage–with great patience and careful instruction.

1 Peter 3:15
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

I was convicted and inspired as I asked myself the questions: “How prepared am to serve in any way at a moment’s notice?

How prepared am I to use the Bible in my relationships with others?

How prepared am I to share my faith?”

I certainly want to be more prepared for these things than I was for the turkey at the door.The stakes are incomparable.  I also realize that the opportunities to respond to all three of these questions are before me every day, including today.  What opportunity, or challenge is at your door?