Tuesday, August 09, 2005

5 People in a Tent for 4

Tomorrow, our kids return to school. It always feels as if summer flies by. This year, it seemed to break the sound barrier. This was one of those summers whose frenetic schedule prohibited a vacation for the Brantley family. And, I'm really not complaining. Trying to find time for a trip is a problem that most people in the world never face. So, we're blessed beyond measure.

At the same time, we look back with regret when we've not been able to spend focused, extended time with our kids. Facing this reality, Carol and I did something we've never done before. This past Sunday evening, we loaded up our small tent, fishing gear, a few groceries, and what little camping equipment we have (basically a flash light and sleeping bags), and took off for an overnight camping excursion. My oldest son, Allen (who's home from Oklahoma Christian for a few days), our youngest daughter, Miranda and I left first to set up camp. Carol remained behind until our youngest son, Zach returned home from an overnight trip to a friend's lake house. By 7:30 p.m., they joined us at our camp site.

We pitched our small tent on the banks of a beautiful, 3 acre lake owned by Steve Wilson, a great friend and brother. This lake is teeming with large mouth bass. We fished late into the evening, built a fire, and ate our fill of beanie weanies (this may be a uniquely southern dish).

Around midnight, we ambled in the darkness to our tent for a night's rest--at least that's what we thought. Now, please understand. Carol purchased this tent for $40.00 at Academy Sports a few months ago. The occasion was a father/daughter campout at this very sight. This tent claims to sleep four--but they must have meant four small infants! Somehow we managed to sandwich all five of us into this little tent.

I learned a few things that evening. First, it's nearly impossible to sleep when you're cheek to cheek with the people you love. Second, there's no greater feeling in the world than to be cheek to cheek with the people you love. Third, there's no place I'd rather be than cheek to cheek with the people I love.

In the stillness of the night, and the squirms of 5 uncomfortable people trying to sleep, God speaks powerfully. He reminds us of what's important. He reminds us of who's important. The enemy delights in distracting us from the important, attempting to nudge us toward the urgent. Sometimes, it takes 5 people jammed in a tent for 4 for God to get our attention. Thank you, dear Lord, for speaking to me in this extraordinary way through rather ordinary means. Grant us all eyes to see, and ears to hear you in unexpected ways.

1 comment:

Allen "AB" Brantley said...

You left out one of the best parts; We caught nearly 20 lbs of bass collectively! Every part of that campout will remain close to my heart. It has been to good to be home for a couple of weeks. I love you and Mom dearly and can't wait to come back and fish some more!