Well friends, God evidently had plans for me this morning. Of course, who am I kidding? I am confident He plans my every day; admittedly, I’m just slower to recognize it sometimes. Today was one of those unavoidable moments, it was different and I’d be selfish if I didn’t share that if God met me at the park, he can meet you anywhere too.
I wasn’t dressed for this event at all. I had on zero make-up, a hat, tennis shoes… and, to risk being a bit graphic, while in the direct morning sun, I feel confident my aroma was nothing less than pungent as well. And this is how God chose for us to meet.
It seems that the storms in life are where one tends to “grow” the most. With this, I definitely am referring NOT to physical growth, but speaking in regard to emotional and mental growing. And in authenticity, this is the season where I find myself currently.
As I mentioned, it was hot this morning, and Shelby & I were out walking together for exercise, as we often do. We laugh together, we solve problems, talk about relationships, friends, our struggles, college classes, ethical questions…. I guess we cover it all. 🙂 These are definitely moments I count as blessings with my sweet girl.
Today as we rounded the park, we saw Blake* at a distance. He was walking “Cookie” as he always does – while reading a book – which he also always does while walking around the park. Over the past year, we’ve shared a handful of conversations, I guess. Mostly we discuss books, our views on politics, college plans for my girls, and most importantly, our common faith in the Lord. He has a higher than typical intellect, as is common with chemical engineers, but what is remarkable to his personality is how is relates in conversation. Through his own self-admission, he has an unusual ability to take on the feelings of others around him. As I mentioned, in all my 46 years to this point, perhaps I’m in the most difficult storm yet.
Catching up to Blake*, we exchanged a few pleasantries, gave Cookie some attention and a little scratch, then briefly discussed our quarantine lifestyles. Somewhat randomly, he shares with us a song he recently enjoyed while worshiping out on his back patio… and he begins to sing. Instantly I’m thankful to be hiding behind sunglasses, as the tears emerge. He follows this by quoting some scripture… of course, the exact verse I have been praying specifically through this storm in my life. And, I felt the very presence of God. By now, there is no hiding my tears, as much as I tried. Our intention was not to dive into real life with Blake* today, but it was God’s plan that prevails, not ours. As our conversation unfolded, he poured scripture over us and shared about the work of Jesus in his own life. In humility, he shared his regrets and some of his own life’s mistakes. Ultimately the three of us held hands (yes, during “social distancing”) and we three prayed together right in the middle of the park to our mighty Lord, the only God who is capable of miracles.
Some days I’m stronger than others, but perhaps today I needed a little boost. Jesus knew exactly what my heart and my spirit needed today. He knew how I’d be dressed, where I’d go and exactly who to place in my path bringing me the reassurance, security and peace during this storm of my life. God met me at the park today through a man walking his dog and reading a book. He poured out His Spirit and showed me that His love has no boundaries. Praise the Lord!
*name changed
Thanks for reading, y’all. 🙂
domesticchick.home.blog 