While attending a conference in Jacksonville, Florida, I was graciously given an opportunity to experience a surprising and beautiful moment. It gave me a real heart-pounding sense of joy and gratitude, and I have not stopped smiling since it occurred. For many, this would be totally non-eventful but for someone from central Canada, it left me with a sense of wonder and awe. The hotel in which I was staying was located across the St John’s River from the site of the conference. This necessitated a walk across a long bridge each morning and evening. The twenty minute walk was made more pleasant by the lovely landscape and architecture in the distance. Boats, large and small peacefully manoeuvred their way up and down the waterway and the sunrises and sunsets were postcard worthy. On my first evening returning back to my lodgings, my eyes captured the slightest glimpse of a fin in the waters below. When I looked more closely, a beautiful dolphin was making its way to the surface in a guarded but playful manner. I came to a quick stop to watch the mesmerizing antics of this graceful mammal. It seemed to be dancing and entertaining for me as I peered at the movements from atop the bridge. People biked and walked passed me with no desire to stop and witness this brief encounter with nature. It was either just a familiar sight or the busyness of life forced them to keep moving. My new “water friend” seemed to move on and as I was about to leave, another dolphin joined the dance and the two majestically rose from the water in perfect timing and sequence. This continued for another five minutes. They swam in unison. They criss-crossed paths. They went in different directions but always came back to one another’s side like best friends. I was so happy to be privy to their obvious camaraderie. They had given me such joy and tranquility. I have always had a difficult time defining what God’s grace is all about. It occurred to me that the happiness, joy, peace and love that one feels after a spiritual encounter with Christ causes very much the same feeling as my brief moment with the dolphins. The exhilaration, the peace, joy, quickened step and smiling face are all part of the Holy Spirit working in our lives. We all have moments like this. Once you’ve had them, you want more. It is important to be alert to those moments when something causes you to pause, reflect and feel the awesomeness of God and all creation. I have been back over the bridge many times since that first day searching for the same experience but have not seen my aquatic entertainers again. Their gentle presence was life-giving and memorable. I feel as if I was invited to a special performance created just for me. God makes sure that we have special, personal invitations throughout our lives. Grace can take many forms. Enter into whatever these life moments are and R.S.V.P. to the invitation.
Jim Dunn
Blessėd Blending
May 24, 2016