Do you have a "God story"?

[Jessica Kaercher]

I'm currently reading "God Stories - Inspiring Encounters with the Divine" by Jennifer Skiff. I wonder if anyone has a story they'd like to share about how they felt God's presence in their life.

[Carol Gerrish]

A good God question! As my understanding of God shifts from being "somewhere out there" to "everywhere, right now", I'm realizing that it's not so much about God busting into my life but rather about me paying attention to what's already here. Or maybe I'm finally learning that if I listen to the little whispers, God won't have to occasionally smack me upside the head to make a point!

Meditation and giving my busy brain a rest helps. Sometimes after a conversation or interaction where I've been able to be a bit more present or attentive, I'm left with a "wow!" reaction ... and I know it's not because of me or what I've done/said. These amazing, magical connections with others are where I easily recognize God's presence.

[Jessica Kaercher]

I completely agree. God IS everywhere, all the time. It's up to us to look and listen, right? It's tricky when it's not what we want to hear though. I've had moments of connection with loved ones, and later when I look back, I realize what a blessing from God those moments were. The most profound being before my father passed away. We had a few seconds of looking at each other deeply, and I'll never forget the feeling of love from that moment. These moments of connection happen more commonly with my kids. But, the moment has to be slow, and quiet, as you said. We have to be listening and paying attention.

[Cathi Durr]

I have always felt God with me, but no more so than when I was 17 years old. I was in PA driving home from church when a child on her bike fell directly in front of my car. I was going about 35 mph on a 40mph road and I felt God's hands take control of my car. I swerved, I could have hit another car, the girl, or a house or a tree. I hit NONE of these. I can tell you it was NOT my skillful driving that saved any of us, but truly the hand of God. The child (who happened to be deaf and mute) had a gotten her shoe lace tangled in the bike pedal and simply fallen in front of my car. It happended so fast and yet I can tell you I felt God's arms around me steering that car - I have absolutely no doubt that God was with me and saved us all. I thank God every day for all of my blessings and try to be the person he wants me to be. I am certain I sometimes fall short, but I keep on trying.

[Carol Gerrish]

Wow, Cathi ... God sure broke into your life in an amazing way! This must be a powerful connection and reminder for you each and every day. Thanks for sharing this.

[Leigh Brown]

Back when Siera, my oldest, was born I had postpartum depression. At the time, I really just thought there was something wrong with me and I was a bad Mom because I did not feel a connection with Siera. I insisted on nursing her.One I have a strong belief in nursing if you can and two I needed to find a way to connect with Siera. Every time I nursed I prayed for help and strength to get through the days of Siera crying non stop and for a connection with my daughter. The praying was more like begging for help. After four weeks I was completely burnt out and convinced I was not meant to be a Mom. In my first prayer of the morning (just after 3am - I'll never forget) I told God I couldn't do it anymore and I was sorry. I was devistated at my failure. I closed my eyes and cried. I don't know if this part was imagined in my depression, but I opened my eyes because the room became very bright. When I opened my eyes there was a golden, hazzy glow all around Siera. Imagined or not, at that moment I fell deeply and completely into unconditional love with Siera. Then I REALLY cried, rocking Siera and not wanting to put her down. Siera at that moment became my "Angel Baby". I am eternally grateful I able to allowed God to place his love in my heart.

[Jessica Kaercher]

Wow Leigh Ann. Thanks so much for sharing this. This is a beautiful experience you've had! I'm so glad you had the faith foundation to continue praying and to ask for help and strength.

[Jessica Kaercher]

Did anyone see Immaculee Ilibagiza speak in Albany last year? She survived the holocaust in Rwanda, and experienced God's presence during it. A truly amazing God story! She was being hunted and lived in a bathroom with several other women for over 30 days. The name of the book is "Left to Tell". It was quite a gruesome read, how could it not be? But also a very positive book that proves how God can enter our lives with prayer and scripture.

Today's scripture fits in perfectly with her experience: "So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. - Jesus (Mark 11:24)