“Perfect,” many may have described that mid-August day. The clouds appeared as painted on the sky and the breeze seemed to carry only the weight of a feather! Families crowded the vacation areas to seize this opportunity for climbing and investigating these amazing structures. I was among them, knowing little of the challenges that awaited me.

Since my reservation I had counted the days when I would be standing at the base of that navigational tower built for only one reason….to save lives caught in the swirling and dangerous waters of our nation. …. a lighthouse!

For years I have been amazed by their work and its likeness to what Christ does in our lives. His light enables us, as we call upon Him, to navigate life’s roughest waters and live! Their light made up of many highly polished lenses (a beacon) is aimed at the surface of the water warning ship captains of shallow water thus saving the lives of their crew and the ship for which they are responsible!

This beacon was certainly on my agenda for that day. As I left the hotel I stopped by the front desk to confirm my directions, I did not trust my GPS! The gentleman quickly pointed me to the bridge I was to take and the turns I was to make and I was off.

As I approached the street, something was not right. My heart dropped as I realized that I had taken the wrong turn and would miss my reserved time to climb! Calling upon Him, suddenly I saw a business and pulled into the parking lot. A gentleman came out and as I shared my dilemma, He confirmed the unwelcome news…I could not make it in time! Suddenly I felt peace and said it is okay, not realizing the weight of my words!

The gentleman was supportive as he gave me the correct directions, we all but prayed as I left him a book about Jesus and took off. Suddenly the fear returned and I heard the words, “you drove 5 hours to miss this climb”? I pulled off the road and called the lighthouse office. The lady verbalized my haunting thoughts. Yes, you have missed your reserved time, but drive to the lighthouse and try.” I thanked her and was off with mixed emotions driving in at least in the right direction this time and praying aloud!

Finally, I arrived, and again dwarfed by the magnificent structure, I leaped out of the car, calling upon Him, and made my way to the ranger who was standing at the base of the lighthouse. I introduced myself and explained my plight. She hesitated, my heart stopped, and then she said let me see your reservation. I was so nervous that I found it difficult to pull it up on my phone. She said, may I try? I responded gratefully, “yes,” again calling upon Him. Shortly, she found it, and I heard the longed-for words…” yes you may climb in the next group’!!

There was not much time before the climb was to begin, so I quickly readied myself and the group gathered near the doorway for instructions. Caution and safety were emphasized and then I heard her closing words that I shall never forget. “Our groups consist of eight, but there will be nine this time”! I almost burst into tears thanking God for this miracle!!

Just a lighthouse story, but loaded with His patience, love, and power! What are the dangerous waters in your life today? They may be sick children, jailed loved ones, dying spouses, or even thoughts of suicide. I plead with you to hold on tightly to His unchanging hand. Ships crash and are destroyed because they cannot see how shallow the water has become.

The shallow waters in our lives need light so we can safely navigate them and live! Hence, I beg of you, call upon Him and allow His light to show you to safety…. His arms!!

Grace Abounds Ministries desires that each of you navigates life’s waters safely. This can only be done with His Light! Please continue praying for us and as God directs send those donations of any amount, and regularly as possible. All moneys go for the ministry and service to God’s children.

A “Holiday music special “is in the making” and more to come! Please remember that “Moreover the law entered, that the offense may abound, (more clearly seen) but where sin abounded, grace did much more abound! Romans 5:20…His love, until next time!