The day dawned sunny and warm on the west coast of Scotland where we had spent the previous day and night near Carnoustie. We said our farewells to our wonderful hosts then set out with no real agenda save what the Lord had in mind. It had been revealed in part, but the Spirit wouldn’t allow me to say much, simply asking me to trust Him. Little did I know it would unfold before us as a summer rose, whose fragrance lingers in my spirit yet today…

After stopping in Dundee for lunch we talked about different possibilities and I knew that if we were going to make it to the Highlands something needed to happen quickly. True to Gods unfailing faithfulness, Phils sensitivity to the Spirit, and Richards willingness to drive wherever, and do whatever the Lord directed, we were soon headed in the right direction.

As we drove north, the Spirit nudged us to stop at The Hermitage; a National Heritage Trust site set in the Craigvean Forest. The name conjured up images of monks in my mind, but is actually the site of a cave which was home to a Celtic Bard and warrior many long years ago, set in a stunningly beautiful forest with miles of trails intersecting here and there with the River Braan.

We had barely started down a path along the river when a wave of joy flooded my soul and I began to laugh knowing that angels were with us, that they would reveal themselves and that and the Lord had something special in store for us. The Holy Spirits presence began to manifest in a most wonderful way, bringing revelation as He opened eyes to see and ears to hear more of the awesome splendor of His majesty expressed in His creation, and the beautiful sound of it returning praises to the Lord.

It began with the wind…
The rushing water; the songs of birds; the rustling leaves of trees…
It was seen in every thing around; the very light and life of the Lord God Almighty, His spoken Word resonating throughout the ages; residing in all of His creation. His Word continuing to fulfill it’s purpose, so much more than just holding all things together, and never returning to Him void.

I had the awesome honor and privilege to witness and be part of another’s awakening to this reality, and found myself blessed beyond measure as it brought a much deeper understanding and awakening of my own in the process. As Phil articulated the Holy Spirits revelation with such clarity and depth, Richard began to respond in turn. Revelation arose within his spirit and though different, he experienced a deeper awareness of Jesus life and presence.
While this was not a new experience for me, a deeper awakening and revelation was imparted that came from being in the tangible presence of the Lord Jesus Christ together; pondering the truths of Gods word revealed by the Spirit; and joining with creation in the praise and adoration of the One True God, Creator and Lord of all that was and is and evermore will be.
It seemed the was a mutual impartation and perhaps even transference in and through the Spirit that happened when we were together which I can’t even began to explain, yet know is true.

I cannot find adequate words to describe what transpired, but Phils beautiful account  expresses quite wonderfully the awe and wonder of that day, and the transformation that began through the work of the Holy Spirit of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I am not sure I will ever understand the fullness of what took place that day at the Hermitage, or on the other days we spent together from the first afternoon at our friend Enid’s, walking together into the future at the River Almond; to the night and day in the Highlands, but I am certain we are only vaguely aware of what all transpired and was set into motion throughout the month we were all there.
That it was the Lords doing is beyond doubt. There was also opposition from the enemy from the moment we first talked about it until we were well under way. Again and again the Lord proved Himself faithful; making a way when there was no way; opening up doors and; days and times for our paths to weave together, providing everything needed, directing us and blessing us with His Spirit in precious and powerful ways.
I will forever be thankful for this day, and the others we experienced like it. They remain a continual source of joy to my spirit and my heart. I cannot think of them without smiling from sheer joy.

This morning as I drove home from taking Richard to the airport (again!), the Lord brought this day to remembrance with a vivid recall of it’s beauty and wonder. I felt Jesus calling me to Come, spend time alone with Him in worship. He has had me focusing upon the reality of His presence that we felt in a deeper and more profound way that day at the Hermitage; to behold His glory, His majesty, His face, keeping it ever before me at this time.
And as I do, my spirit soars in worship, rising up in praise to He who holds our lives and futures in His hands.
He is forever Faithful and True; His love is from everlasting to everlasting; His Word never fails.
Bless His Holy Name!

Whatever is coming will not shake us as long as we keep eternity ever before us. May we behold Jesus face in all His majesty and splendour; worshipping He who is the source of all life; our Light, our strength and hope.
May we allow His love to arise within our hearts and transform us; that we may become what we were created to be, the sons and daughters of God revealed by His Spirit in this day.

Bless the Holy, Mighty, Awesome name of Jesus, whose name is above all names ! All creation worships and praises our God; the heavens declare His glory!
Shall we not have His praises continually on our lips? Yes indeed we shall and more,for He is worthy to be praised!