God’s providence was demonstrated through a “divine appointment” that I experienced early within the summer. As I was walking home from work across the boat trailer parking lot, I passed by a guy who was preparing his boat for launching, but as he was by himself, needed help.

I was able to get changed and help him. As I hadn’t had the chance to get out onto the lake due to studies, his thanks was given with a boat trip around the lake.

This was a needed time of rest for me, and he and I were able to talk a bit about his family, his faith, and his outlook on life. We exchanged phone numbers, and remained in contact. As the summer progressed, he began to walk through some really difficult events in his life, including the suicide of his younger brother. We were able to have some deep discussions about life, values, and interacting with God in the midst of grief.

This “chance encounter” grew to be a rich friendship where I was able to minister to somebody that I would’ve never expected, but God seemed to arrange our meeting.

Tobyn B., Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, 2013