A Man Named Jim

Many years ago, I met a man named Jim. Our paths crossed only once, but I've never forgotten Jim or the gift he gave me. Through his words, Jim invited me to share his experience of God and took me to a hilltop where I've never actually been. That is the power of story: 


Jim's story:

One summer afternoon, while on the Isle of Iona (Scotland), I hiked to the top of Dun I (done ee), the highest ridge on the island.  The day was sunny but was cooled by a strong wind.  At the top I was pleased to find that I was alone.  I nestled into the lea of a boulder, to feel the sun more and the wind less, and began to celebrate the day by improvising on my harmonica.  In the solitude of a pause I heard a moment of music from somewhere.  I was not alone!

I got up and walked around to discover who else might be on the hilltop but saw no one.  Reassured, I returned to “my boulder” and nestled in once again.  Just as I raised the harmonica to my lips to resume playing, I heard the music again and was startled to realize that it came from my own harmonica – a breath of wind blowing through the reeds.  It was as if I were playing a duet with God.

As I now reflect on this experience, I wonder, “Are we ever alone?” and “Is not all of life a duet?”                                                                
                        

Reflections:

John 14:18 I will not leave you as orphans: I will come to you.

Isaiah 66:14 As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.


Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair.  ~Kahlil Gibran


-Is there a time when I was keenly aware of God's presence?  When?  What happened? What story would I tell?


Is there a place where I feel particularly close to God?  Is it possible to spend time there this week?  If not, is it possible to find another?