Matthew 3:11-17.    

I turned my car toward the interstate. Nearby, an airman stood with his thumb out. Stopping, I shouted, “Where are you headed?” He picked up his bag and trotted over. “Rantoul.” “I can get you halfway. I’m going to Kankakee.” “That’s great,” he smiled. Tossing his bag in the back, he took a seat in the front. I never picked up hitchhikers, but somehow this seemed safe.

We spent the next hour and a half talking. He was two years younger than me and facing his first overseas duty. I was in college and just called to ministry. His air maintenance crew was possibly headed to Germany. “We won’t know until our orders come down. It could be anywhere.” He became quiet and stared out the window.

Pray for him,” an inner voice whispered. I was new to all this, but the call was persistent. Arriving at my exit, I asked, “Would it be all right if I prayed for you?” He nodded. I prayed that he would find God near wherever he went. I thanked God for crossing our paths and prayed God’s blessing on my new friend.

We were just two young men embarking on new journeys, both needing assurance of God’s presence and care.

Author: Duane Brush