Last Sunday, June 30th, marked our 24th year on ‘Paradise’ island; otherwise known as the “Island of Enchantment.” Just before leaving our native New York, a word from the Lord came forth at our church through our pastor’s wife. The word had to do with plenty of storms and contrary winds that would shake up a lot of things. That word would be ‘right on the money’ as the saying goes. We’ve had our share of turbulent times-and ‘it aint over yet!’
Enchantment is a way of being lulled over. Yes, the island is beautiful and enticing with clear skies, deep blue and green waters; mountains all around, but life is awfully tough. Despite so many advances in technology, we’re worlds away from life in the states. Marching to a different drum, allowed us time to learn to mix cement by hand; not pre-mixed concrete but truckloads and wheelbarrow loads of gravel, sand, water, and the cement. Like the time we mixed thirty-one 47lb. sacks for half our porch and then thirty-three more the second time around. We learned shovels had different characteristics and purposes. We (son and two daughters also) learned to carry cinder blocks, etc. In fact, our oldest daughter took her newfound skills and taught them to Masai tribe members in Tanzania, Africa. She also taught ‘machista’ teenage boys in Mexico that a girl could do the same thing they did; only better, by mixing cement right before their incredulous eyes. Yeah man, to locals, we were the ‘Gringos’ living in the mountains. We were The Robinson Crusoe on a quest to escape the city life; on a quest to breathe clean air; on a quest to be independent as well as survivors.
In time we’ve come to realize this is our wilderness. Hopefully, we won’t be here for 40 years like the Israelites were wandering in circles, though it sometimes feels that way! But this is where God wants us. This is our training camp. Does that mean we’ll be in the construction business in heaven? I don’t think so! I’m petitioning against that right now and giving Him some suggestions! But God teaches us and speaks to us in our daily activities. He changes our lives and our perspectives on things. Things we thought to be important lose some of their significance. Must-haves become, eh-maybe someday… As He works in us, we learn to keep our focus on Him and on His desires. We learn to consult Him for everything we do or plan. As we’re in tune to nature-the trees and all that surrounds us, we hear His voice; not a mystical, spooky voice but in our hearts and in our spirit, we sense His direction. Of course, you don’t have to live atop a mountain with breath-taking views or near a rainforest. Heck, you may not even be surrounded by lush vegetation breathing in clean mountain air all day long, and God may not take you to tribes ‘outta-the-way,’ but He can and will use you right where you are. However, if you’re an adventure-seeker, by all means, let Him know! He’s got a plan for you!
So, we’ve had our ups and downs and have learned to do a lot of things on our own. We’ve learned to survive and to hold on to the man Jesus, the One who told a thief, “Today, you’ll be with me in paradise.” Someday soon we’ll be headed to heaven. No shoveling and hopefully, no cement mixing! As we look back at almost a quarter century of our lives here, we can definitely see God’s hand leading us, feeding us, providing for us, and shielding us from the storms. He’s got us in the palm of His hand. It’s the safest place to be. Our adventures are many, and God’s in control. How about you? Do you need some adventure in your life? Need a little zest? I could suggest moving out here (Puerto Rico)!!! But for a real adventure, seek Jesus and invite Him into your heart. You’ll be enchanted forever.
God Bless!
Sam
Work on our balcony and deck by me
Enjoying the mountaintop view
