There are times in my life as a believer in Jesus Christ, that I feel that God is more hands off than hands on. Have you ever felt that way? And often when it is least expected, God very succinctly reminds me that He is working diligently in the background while clearing not only a path before my feet, but He is also following close behind. 

“You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.” (Psalms 139:5 NLT)

Through life experiences, I have discovered that we serve a God who is full of surprises, a Heavenly Father who enjoys tossing an occasional treat to remind us of His unfailing love and care. I call such anomalies, Godwinks—an out-of-the-blue, divinely orchestrated event that shows us we are never alone.

Recently, my wife and I spent a few days in the mountains for our 36th wedding anniversary. We rented a small cabin and enjoyed the stunning scenery and fresh clean air. It was a chance to calm our hearts and minds from the craziness of work and life.

One evening as we strolled near a serene glassy lake, where there is typically very little parking (there was one spot left!), we came upon another couple who were trying to snap photos of each other. I offered to take a few pictures for them, so they could both be in the same shot. They happily agreed. We started to chat and discovered they were from Texas; and like us, were vacationing and celebrating their wedding anniversary in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Godwink time!

Their anniversary is June 14. Ours is June 13. They have three children, two boys and girl, as do my wife and I. Coincidences? I think not. We spoke a while longer, then wished them well on their journey and said goodbye. Minutes later, we bumped into them a second time on a completely different path. Once again, we talked and parted company, but God was not done yet! Strolling along another tree-lined route back towards our car, and WHAM! We find this same pair sitting at a picnic table. More laughs ensued and we finally sat down with them to rest. Okay God, we get it!

Following more lively conversation, the gentleman finally asks, “Are you people Christians?” Stunned, my wife and I reply, “Yes, we are!” More talking led to discussing our families and some of the worries and concerns we had for friends and loved ones. Even though these folks were complete strangers, we felt so at peace—that we were meant to find and interact with this believing couple as God’s way of reminding us that the communion of saints is very much alive in our lives. 

As we conversed, they learned that I had recently authored a book and was discouraged with trying to promote it. They blessedly ordered my novel on the spot and supported me beyond words. Eventually walking to our vehicles, our new friends, Jeff and Lori, offered to pray with us—right there in the parking lot! So, holding hands and praying for one another’s families and for each other led to the exchange of hugs and phone numbers. Since then, we have stayed in touch with photos and prayers and shared memories. 

Driving to our cabin, we marveled at God’s plan for us to meet these wonderful people when we both needed a spiritual boost. This encounter reminded me of a few verses in the bible that solidify God’s presence in my life and yours.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28 NLT)

“Praise the Lord; praise God our Savior! For each day he carries us in his arms” (Psalms 68:19 NLT)

God is always working everything for our good, so keep your eyes and ears open for Godwinks—because you just never know when a heavenly-sent something or someone enters your life and seriously makes your day and refreshes your thirsty soul! 

Paul Smyth