4AM --- I push in the knob to release the brakes, and ease out of the truck stop, which is completely filled with parked and idling trucks. We take the westbound ramp and soon Bruce has managed to get our 78,000 pounds to highway speed and we head into the Wisconsin darkness, made bitter cold by Caly's arctic air, heavy with cold and danger. The short winter days mean that we'll be traveling in the dark this morning for several hours before we are greeted by sunrise This far north, the sun's arc seems far to the south, and even on a sunny day, the sun appears to be distant, casting long shadows all day long, and ineffective at generating much heat of any kind. . The on board thermostat which is at a mere 3 degrees (F) upon departure, soon shows the outside temperature to be at -9. Inside the cab, the heater is warm. I pity any animal wild or domestic trying to endure the frigid, icy air.

This is a quick trip from southern Wisconsin out to Bismarck, North Dakota to swap loads with another driver. He'll take this load on to the west coast and enjoy home time, and I'll bring his load back to Wisconsin for delivery.

Prone to worry, my mind soon takes advantage of the lull in pressing matters and sets about with its list of things to worry about: Are we going to make it on time; are the road conditions okay; Is my family doing all right?

We top a small hill, and the scene catches me off guard. There, low in the western sky, a full Moon, almost with a kindly smile, casts its gentle light onto the countryside laid out before me. The farm fields, the rolling hills and the forests, look almost magical in the soft moonlight reflected by the snow that covers the entire area. The scene has a reassuring and calming feel to it. It's an unexpected vista, and the feeling it gives me is unmistakable. I had prayed only moments before for guidance, safety, and the simple reassurance that He is there, that He understands.

Wisconsin is beautiful, and in this moment, the moonlight and the blanket of snow combine to transform the scenery and it Suddenly is calming and reassuring. It's one of occasions that from time to time suddenly thrust themselves into my life, offering a break from worry and cares, like the aroma of a lilac bush, or the flowers of a honeysuckle tree. It feels like God is saying to me, “Yes, I know you have worries and fears, but here's a reminder that I am still here, and that I love you.” The problem for me is that these moments usually appear suddenly and unannounced. Too often they come and they go, without my notice, and the blessing and intimate message intended, is somehow lost by the confused and busy recipient.

Have you ever had moments like that? Perhaps it came in the form a sunset, a smile from a stranger, or

rain drops on a hot day, but the unique timing and creation of the incident leave you feeling that it was more than just a simple coincidence?

I believe these moments can come from God. Whatever you believe, or however you think they arrive in your life, I hope they continue to bring you a brief amount of happiness and reassurance. I hope you are better at recognizing them, and enjoying them than I am.