One day I was driving a group of friends to a family seminar in Holmes County, Ohio. The village of Berlin was about an hour from our home. The seminar was held at a Mennonite Church. It is a wonderful setting for a seminar.
On Saturday the seminar is all day. I had to leave without cash and without food. I left that morning a little frustrated that I would have to go all day without eating.
I consoled myself with the thought that I could fast and it would allow me to concentrate more on the rich teaching that I would receive. It was a beautiful day and the drive was pleasant through countryside that is dear to my heart. The company was good. I enjoyed conversation with my friends about the things of the Lord as we drove.
When we arrived I found my place and settled in to enjoy the seminar. The morning passed swiftly and I noticed no hunger. When the noon hour came I went to the van to spend some time alone with the Lord. On the church grounds was a hill crowned with a giant Maple. In the shade of the tree people began to spread quilts and open large picnic baskets. Out came the food and my resolve to fast began to wane. I watched the Amish and Mennonite moms draw meals from baskets and I knew it would be impossible to meditate with this feast going on in front of me.
I started the van and drove into the village of Berlin. I found the Christian bookstore and spent some time browsing among the books. I have loved books and since I was a child. One of my favorite places on earth is a good bookstore. Standing there I sensed someone behind me and felt a hand on my back. I turned and was shocked to see Lois standing there.
“What are you doing here?” I said.
She smiled. I looked down into her deep brown eyes. “I couldn’t stand the thought of you going hungry so I brought you some money.” My heart welled up with love for her in that moment. We ate lunch and kissed goodbye. I went back to the seminar and she made the hour-long trip back home.
Remembering that day two things stand out in my mind. First that Lois would know that I was hungry and care enough to drive two hours just so I would not have to go without food. Second, that when she went to the church and saw I was gone she knew exactly where she would find me.
I am a wealthy man. I have a wife who both knows me and loves me.
Kenneth L. Pierpont
ken@kenpierpont.com
Riverfront Character Inn
Flint, Michigan
January 13, 2003