Summer Witness

I am hiking the Twin Sisters Trail.  After a long series of switchbacks, nestled in a pine forest with NO view at all, I break out at the top.  What lies before me is spectacular Longs Peak only a short distance away.

I am sitting in a family room with a dying friend.  Everyone knows all too well that this may be the last conversation we will have this side of the resurrection.

I am sitting on the living room floor, surrounded by a chaotic tangle of toys and puzzle pieces.  Suddenly I am tackled by a chattering, somewhat wobbly one year old and we fall down together in a joyous heap.

I am driving with my nine year old grandson discussing various wars he has become aware of and quite interested in.  On his own, he suddenly refers to Gideon’s battle with the Midianites and how God fought for the Israelites and gave them a supernatural victory.

I have just witnessed an amazing sunset on the drive to visit a disabled friend who has not seen a sunset in years.  Her apartment has no western exposure and she only gets out to go to the doctor during the day.  I sit with her and prayerfully listen as she describes hours of relentless pain and feeling let down by the Medicare system.

I sit on the shore of Lake Galilee with my best friend and a life partner (same person) taking communion.

What do all the above have in common?   

Jesus, himself, is present.  Not only is he present, but engaged and drawing me to himself to know him as the author of creation, beauty and love; and the companion and comforter during dark nights on my life’s journey.

This summer, remember the “with-ness” of Jesus wherever you are!