Because I live, you shall live also. John 14:19

Jerry and his Dad were camping in the wilderness.  It was Fall and this would be the last trip together before the school year started again.  Lying in his tent, gazing at the black star-studded sky through the tent door flap, Jerry wished the trip would last forever.  Smiling at that thought, he fell asleep.

'Wake up, Jerry.'  Dad was pushing him roughly.  'Get out.  Get to the stream.  Forest fire.'  Dad didn't even give Jerry time to get dressed.  He hauled him to his feet and pushed him outside.  'Quick, to the stream.  Run downstream.  Don't stop.'

Jerry started to run, then stopped.  Where was Dad?  'Move it, Jerry,' Dad yelled.  'I'm going back for the cell phone.'

Jerry splashed through the water, sometimes tripping, sometimes plunging into deep holes.  On he went.  Finally, he could slow down.  Looking back, he saw an inferno of flame.  But no Dad.

'Oh, God, don't let Dad get hurt.  Don't let him...'  Jerry couldn't finish the prayer.

All day, Jerry waited.  He was lost.  Hungry.  And he knew that without Dad, he would never find his way out of the wilderness.  It was almost dark again when he heard a sound and saw a dark shadow rushing towards him.  Jerry was too tired, and too scared to run.

'Jerry!'  It was Dad.  He was covered in ash and limping.  'A burning tree fell on me, but here I am.'

'Thank You, Lord,' Jerry whispered.  He buried his face in his Dad's shoulder and hugged him tight.  'I'm glad you're okay, Dad.  You'll be able to get us home.'

And Dad did!

Prayer:  Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You keep us safe and lead us home.  Amen.