Before I Called, He answered

"I Found Joy in a BIG God" Part Seventeen

The tears that punctuated each good-bye had at least momentarily stopped flowing and I was sitting in the 'She Speaks' reception area of the hotel. My plane wasn't leaving until close to 6:00pm and it was just noon time now. Not in any rush to embark on my journey home, I was content to wait and let others with earlier flights board the shuttles that would provide needed transportation to the airport.

Cheri, my friend from 2005, walked over and took a seat beside me. She too had some time to spare before returning her rental car for 3:00pm. She suggested we have lunch together and I jumped at the idea of spending some precious time with her. As we gathered our belongings I saw Melissa and hurried over to say goodbye. She was the last of my 'hope-to-see' friends before I left. I shared with her that Cheri and I were going for lunch and that Cheri had also just offered me a ride to the airport.

Upon hearing this Melissa grabbed my arm and said, "Joy, that's such a God-thing". Not fully understanding, Melissa went on to explain. Without going into detail she expressed that there was some difficulty with the shuttle service and encouraged me again that God was really aware of my every need by providing me with this alternate, definite transportation. Before I even knew of my need, God had provided His answer. Giving Melissa a final hug, Cheri and I then headed to the parking lot.

Cheri knew of a "Chili's" restaurant nearby and within minutes we were seated and enjoying her recommendation of a delicious salad bar and chicken-pot-pie. As tasty as this meal was, it was the company that was satisfying my hunger. Cheri began sharing with me all the ways God had been leading in her life over the past few years. Ministry opportunities. God's guidance. Family activities. Future hopes and plans. My heart just soared to be given this extra blessing of time with this treasured friend. In this short visit God was knitting our friendship together word by word. Cheri's passion for the Lord is so deep and genuine; I just know the Lord has wonderful plans in store for her. Her joy of the Lord increased my passion to serve and honour Him.

All too quickly it was time to head for the airport. After returning the rental car, we boarded a complimentary shuttle bus that drove us to our respective terminals. I was our driver's first stop, so with a quick hug and promise to stay in touch, I grabbed my belongings and embarked on another 'first'. Taking a deep breath I walked through sliding glass doors, facing the unknown.