In the next leg of the trip, the plane again wasn’t full. My plan was to proof the manuscript of my book that just came from the graphic designer; this should be the last pass before publication. I should be able to move through several chapters during this flight. 

James approaches my row and asks for the window seat. Of course I complied with a smile. Following takeoff, he pulls out a book to read and I open up my manuscript, red pen in hand. About thirty minutes into the flight, James initiates, “Are you a professor?” 

“Oh no, I’m just proofing a book manuscript.” 

 “Did you write it? What’s it about?” 

I explain it deals with our thoughts and how they affect our perceptions and ultimately determine our actions. So, it’s highly important to direct our thinking patterns rather than allowing them to direct us…truth over emotion. 

He confesses, “I noticed your book has some references to the Bible. Sorry, I couldn’t help but read some of it…” (I was envious of his ninja eyesight skills ☺) “I just bought a Bible two weeks ago and I’ve been reading it.”  

And then he proceeds to tell me about how he is searching for the truth (those were his words) looking into Eastern meditation, yoga, the Bible, and several authors I wasn’t familiar with. He realizes he has made a mess of life with some poor choices, and it’s time he figures this out. After a few more details about his regrets, he pulls up a picture and concludes, “You see, I have this little eighteen-month-old daughter, and she is everything to me. I want to give her the best life possible, so I need to straighten out my life…I thought maybe the Bible would give me some answers.” 

I felt compassion for him like a mom would for her lost son. Responding, I said, “James, the Bible is full of truth. I’ve been reading the Bible since I was young, and even during times of doubt, I’ve never found it to be misleading—it is truly trustworthy.  I guarantee if you model your life as the Bible guides, your past will be redeemed and your life will change for the better. You will love your sweet little girl in supernatural ways.” 

“That’s most important to me. This week, I’m going on a trip to Italy with my sister, and we’ll be at the Vatican on Saturday. Will you pray for me on Saturday?”

I committed, “Absolutely! I’ll be praying you see truth as you think about spiritual things on Saturday. I hope your Italy trip becomes an awakening!”

I de-planed, praying for John and James all the way to the airport exit doors. 

The conversation I had on the way home will surprise you. Meet me here tomorrow to see what happened!