PT2018.5.4 No coincidences #1

"You're a Christian? Me, too!"

I was so frustrated! Planning on camping in the national forests of the west, I had encountered chained roads, "No access" signs, a spring blizzard, even "no access 'til the elk calving season ends." Late one day, stopped by a flag man after cresting an 11,000 foot pass, there was a small sign: "East Fork San Juan River Camp Ground". What a gem! A regular National Forest CG, opened for the season on that very day, maybe 30 sites spread out on a ridge above the river, only two occupied -- perfect!

I'm kind of a loner, I so I headed for the farthest site, passing the other solitary camper with a nod and a wave. We soon made contact -- miraculous! A man my age, a greeter at Lee Strobel's church near Houston. I have several of Strobel's books! One of my quirks is, that when I read a book that strikes me, I buy 6 more copies to give away. Not with a specific recipient in mind -- I wait for the spirit to tell me who gets each copy. Bo does the same! We shared a dozen quirky characteristics. A brother, indeed.

We were both drawn to the mountains after long absences. Both on kind of spiritual "quests." Long an avid hiker/camper, a season of intense anxiety had held me captive for 8 years. Afraid to leave home...

My youngest son had lent me "Wild at Heart" by John Eldredge, for my trip. It spoke powerfully to me, and as I shared it with Bo, he also identified with its insights and our needs.

Before parting the next morning, I prayed for him and me -- whether he was "just a guy" or an angel sent to encourage me, I'll never know. But encourage me he did -- Bo was the first of three miracle encounters in the wilderness, that God sent me, to cope with my anxiety.

Thank you Jesus! You are always present, but sometimes our fears obstruct our perception of you. Thanks for sending Bo to remind me -- I am never alone.

11/19/2018