I had to think on this one for a good while before I could tell the story just right...but it came to me one night at sea
Many times when I camped on Wayah Bald, a mountain in the southern Smokies, I would ponder the meaning of life and often talk to God. I was sure he had walked beside me and guided my path many times throughout my life, or sent an angel to watch over me. But still, even though I knew it to be true in my heart, there was always a bit of Agnosticity about the whole idea because God had never actually revealed himself to me in a way that left no doubt in my mind. Other people, mostly preachers, said I shouldn't doubt, but for me I needed more than just someone else's word. I have always been one who had to be shown.
It was a beautiful spring night on the mountain. The stars, always bright because of the distance from a ground light source, were unusually bright this night. But there too was another thing I noticed, there was no wind. The night was absolutely still, not the first bit of breeze or rustle of leaves. This is not only rare, but almost unheard of at 5,600 feet.
I had built the obligatory campfire because it was fairly chilly and was musing after dinner. Alone as usual, I began to ponder the meaning of my life and God's plan for me. After pondering for a while, (not to mention half a bottle of tequila) I was having my usual one-sided conversation with God. I became frustrated and a little mad. So I asked, God to reveal himself to me in person. I told him if did it for Moses, he could do it for me, and since there wasn't anyone around for miles, no one would know but us. Emboldened by the tequila, I not only asked, but demanded.
It was just then that a gust of wind blew for about 5 seconds and then subsided as quickly as it had started and it became still again. I said, "That's not good enough God, I need more than that."
Again the wind came up, this time a little stronger and a little longer and became deathly still once more.
I must admit it was a bit creepy, but I said "Still not good enough, I want a burning bush or the like."
The third time the wind got serious for about 15 seconds and then quickly subsided. I said something like, "I didn't think you would do it," and went to bed.
The next morning over coffee I was recalling the previous night and realized what had truly had happened. I began shaking. I knew I
had been given something that very few, if any people today are privy to, a for real visit from God. That morning my doubts ended forever, and I have thanked him for it ever since.
I wonder how many other people challenge God in this way? It reminds me of an old joke about a faithful man who prays to God for him to win the lottery. On his third and final attempt where he berates God for his failure, he hears the voice of the Lord saying: "Meet me half way - Buy a ticket!"
You tell the story well and I appreciate what you say about getting it right. It is sort of one of those 'you had to be there' things.
See God does listen and maybe if you'd shared the Tequila, you just might have got the burning bush. I believe God also likes to be appreciated and has a sense of humor and enjoyed your "I didn't think you would do it" comment.
Oh My Goodness you have send shivers down my spine with this one.......God bless you my friend....now I am all teary.....thank you for sharing this special moment in time!!
God shows up in so many ways. I believe that God shows in what ever way were ready to belive. I belive when we listen there is God we just are not always listening for God. God is in everything and everyone, when we just be still, then were able to listen to the voice of God through the wind, through nature, and even the voice of God comes through people who are still and let God through. Thank you for sharing about how God touched your life.
Walt,
This story touched my heart deeply, my friend. I too, have felt God walking with me through my life, gently guiding, forever watching. I too, have wished for a 'sign' of some kind that He was near me. I am glad you have the sea and boat to get off by yourself and reflect and talk to God. How beautiful the sea must be at night. This is an incredible story...a miracle at sea! I will keep this in my library, dear friend.
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Many times when I camped on Wayah Bald, a mountain in the southern Smokies, I would ponder the meaning of life and often talk to God. I was sure he had walked beside me and guided my path many times throughout my life, or sent an angel to watch over me. But still, even though I knew it to be true in my heart, there was always a bit of Agnosticity about the whole idea because God had never actually revealed himself to me in a way that left no doubt in my mind. Other people, mostly preachers, said I shouldn't doubt, but for me I needed more than just someone else's word. I have always been one who had to be shown.
