I can't think of any better way to start my blog then to relate the following story to you. It really happend!
I awoke this morning badly needing a hug, a tender touch of love. So coffee cup in hand and plugged into my IPOD I headed for the patio, my quiet space, and sitting in my hammock chair I gazed out at the glistening lake, a splashing duck taking his morning bath, and the beautiful Florida morning in front of me. Mind you, I was not praying, only worhiping with the beautiful album I had clicked on. Soon my eyes closed as my heart focused all its attention on the words of love for my Lord feeding into my ears, words that reminded me how beautiful He is, altogether lovely, and my heart soared in response to this Bridegroom of mine.
An aroma of scented wood swept past my conciousness. Then there it was, again and again. Was something burning.... surely not a fireplace at this time of day. I swung my gaze around to look into the villa where I live for any smoke or other indication of fire......none. As I turned back around and closed my eyes to refocus on my worship, the thought came. Could that fragrance, which was quite pleasant, be the Lord?
And then I felt it. A wonderful physical heaviness and atmosphere around me. I recognized it; it is the manifest presence of the Holy Spirit! I began to respond wordlessly in praise to the Lord, and then although my eyes were closed, I sensed Him, my Lord, standing very close and in front of me. And reaching down, He pull me up into His arms and held me in the most satisfying bear hug I have ever known.
Although I was aware that I was still physically sitting, my whole being sensed His arms around me. Just as I was marveling at this, I suddenly sensed that He was sitting in my chair, and I on His lap with my head resting on His shoulder. His left arm held me close to Him and His great right hand on my cheek was gently holding my head on His shoulder as if to say, "There, my beloved. You are in my arms. You may stay here all day if you would like, because I too desire this"
And I did for some time.....just soaking up His presense which seemed so real to me. Finally, Clifford, my dog begin to remind me that it was time for his walk by loudly wagging his whole body back and forth and panting in earnest. I knew it was time to get up and on with my day. The Lord said without a word from me, "Yes, I know. But you will take with you the sense of my love wherever you go today."
Then, I opened my eyes, noticed my music had ended as well as the weight of the Holy Spirit and His fragrance.
But I had been hugged.