Yes I actually choked up. Here’s why. I’m singing the song ‘Wayfaring Stranger’. The song means a lot to me because it tells us that no matter what, we’ll see our Heavenly Father. Our journey at times will be rough and steep. But no matter what, we will be with Jesus.
Sitting not 10 feet in front of me is my dear friend. He has seen dark clouds, He has lived a steep journey. Health issues, stroke, have left my friend in the position of only being able to speak maybe three words at a time.
But I see him. And also yes, I see my living Lord and Savior shining through this man. My friends’ eyes are watery, and squinting tightly together. His lips are moving and he does something that he can’t do. I get choked up. My throat is tightening, uh oh, I’m having thoughts that I’m not gonna make it through the song…..
I love to sing. Also when I sing, I look at people while singing to them. I want to connect. Make sure they are hearing me, make sure the words are being heard. I see people smiling, some are nodding along to the beat. As always, there are a few with that “bored, whatever” look. What pleases me is that there are people singing along.
So, what was my friend doing that he can’t do? He was mouthing the words to the song. Not just two or three words that his physical body will only allow. But he is singing every single word. I’m getting choked up again writing this. My friend isn’t just singing a song, he lives it.
To see a fellow human being actually living in Christ is inspiring to me. I do not pity my friend, nor do I feel sorry for him. Actually I want more of what my friend has!
What does he have? He’s got God’s love shining in him, faith and trust in the unseen, and a joy coming from deep within. He is the Wayfaring Stranger.
Travel well my friend, knowing in your heart with all the confidence in the world, that you will one day in Heaven see your Heavenly Father. Continue to travel knowing that each day you’ll see your Lord and Savior right there with you every step of the way. We need more friends like this. Thank you Lord for my friend and his inspiration to the world.
See Ya! Dan Ainsworth wilderness preacher
Your friend an i have travel a many roads together as childhood friends an as adults. He may not can talk but he can sing every word to a song. Ive often wonder why God toke his voice an his ministry as a preacher but i know for certain he did his love of the lord away. God bless
Good words Dan. It’s a good reminder of the saints among us.
I’ve enjoyed reading “Wilderness Preacher.”
I have a friend like that also. He can’t speak a word but he can sing Amazing Grace. It brings tears to my eyes every time I hear him. Nothing that happens in this physical world and stop what is shared from the spiritual world. Amen!