Just A Walk On The Beach

"In their hearts humans plan their course, 

but the Lord establishes their steps." 

Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

It was just supposed to be a lazy walk at the beach.  We were returning home from visiting our children in central California and a day on the beach was too long coming and sorely needed. We decided to stay in Camarillo, CA for the evening and visit the beach the next morning.  After a warm breakfast and a purposeful late start, we headed toward McGrath State Beach. It was a good plan, a great plan, and really poor timing, or so we thought.  For some reason, the beach and campground were closed. Being the efficient, thoughtful (lazy) man that I am, I Googled the next nearest place. We drove down S. Harbor Blvd (much less exotic than it sounds) and turned up a dead end patch of W. 5th Street.  To our pleasant surprise, we ended up on a lovely stretch of sand and water known as Mandalay Beach. It really was just what we were looking to find. We walked along the shore, snapping action shots of the pelicans, listening to the gentle break of the surf, and even spotting dolphins as the occasionally surfaced for air. Pat looked for shells, while I looked for small, flat, ocean polished stones to use for carving. We passed a couple sitting on a blanket, enjoying the warm sun, and even received a smile and a wave.  Since it was already afternoon, we thought it might be nice to spend some time looking at the shops and then grabbing a bite to eat. We decided to ask the local couple if they knew anywhere nice in the area. After a brief introduction and some casual small talk, we found out that they were both Christians and a bond of friendship was instantly formed.  We ended up sharing the story of Caleb, our miracle grandson, and they told us about their daughter who was going through some tough times physically. Soon were joining hands in prayer for each other right there on the beach. Two hours can pass by so quickly with friends. We both ended up encouraging each other, sharing what God had done, and what we hoped He would do in the future. It was like we had known then for years.  It never ceases to amaze me how God can put you just in the right spot at just the right time.  It reminds me to stop and look around. Those little accidents are not really accidents. That little voice is not always just in your head. When your plans get changed, it is time to put your spiritual antenna up. When God changes your steps, It's time to start asking, "Who does God want me to be light to today?"