Leaving a frigid Minnesota behind (8 degrees below zero) last Sunday, Skip and I hit the road again in our one-ton diesel pickup. We were heading to Sherman, Texas, where our rig was parked for the past 10 weeks. Our objective was to reach Oklahoma City by 7 pm.
God had other plans. Unbeknownst to us, God had orchestrated a divine appointment with our very own angel on Monday morning, though it required a bit of a detour. Let me explain.
Over these past winter months, Skip has been learning more and more about diesel engines through countless hours of youTubing. He shared tidbits with me from time to time, most of which went in one ear and out the other. However, I recall him mentioning a particular warning code which he dubbed “the code of death.” It says, “Service DEF system required within 150 miles.” Upon goggling this code, it further stipulates, “After 125 miles, you will be limited to 5 MPH.” DEF is the Diesel Exhaust Fuel which reduces the soot of diesel, rendering it more environmentally friendly. Skip reflected, “This is the code we do NOT want to see on the dashboard.”
You guessed it… about 150 miles from Wichita, Kansas, the code of death appeared on the dash display. Oh no! I quickly googled Dodge RAM dealers. Should we endeavor to reach the dealer in Wichita and hope we were within our 150 miles limit? I wasn’t willing to risk that! We opted to divert to Lawrence, Kansas. We found a Holiday Inn just a mile from a RAM dealer.
Skip hopped out of bed early on Monday to be the first in line for service as the doors opened at 7 am. Looking at the schedule, the service manager offered a Friday appointment. Skip was not ready to accept a five-day delay in Lawrence, Kansas.
Back at the hotel, Skip approached the hotel maintenance man, inquiring if he knew of any reputable independent mechanics. Scott made a couple of calls, but again, the delay would be several days.
I stepped into the hotel lobby for breakfast just as Scott and Skip were discussing options. I chimed in a bit. Just then, a Mennonite family chose a breakfast table near ours. The husband was listening intently to our conversation. He started to ask questions. Clearly, he knew diesel engines.
Our angel was named Cory. He is a Mennonite trucker. He made a few calls to his contacts to better diagnose the problem and how it could be resolved. He suggested Skip siphon out the DEF fluid in the tank and replace it with fresh fluid, then reset the engine warning light. We said our goodbyes and thanked him for his assistance. Cory and his family left to go pick up their next shipping load.
The task of siphoning was no small matter. As Skip was struggling with the process, Cory called and offered to return to the hotel to assist. He explained they had time to spare, and he wanted to be helpful. Upon arriving, Cory crawled under the truck to siphon the DEF into a bucket. Scott, the hotel maintenance man, kindly took the DEF to be drained to the sewer. Then Cory assisted Skip in resetting the code system. All the while, Cory’s wife, seven-year-old son, and mother waited quietly and patiently through the 2 hours of troubleshooting and resolution.
We offered to pay for Cory’s time and expertise, but he wouldn’t accept a dime. Monday evening, just as we were arriving to our destination in Texas, Cory called to check up on us, wanting to be sure all was well with our truck. We again thanked him profusely. He thanked us for the opportunity to help a fellow traveler. Amazing.
I’d never envisioned an angel in the form of a 6’2” 250-pound Mennonite trucker from Indiana, but God knew exactly who we needed. Cory was our very own angel; our divine appointment was completed. We felt then—and continue to feel—overcome with gratitude for God’s protection and provision.
SOOOO COOL! This story shoudld be on CBS Sunday Morning! What a miracle – and it has also restored my faith in humankind. Thank you, Lord. Angels everywhere.
Incredible! Thank you for reminding me that angels are all around us…..in all shapes, sizes and places 🙂 Your story is a powerful testimony to God’s goodness.
Wow, what a story – I’m sure one you’ll never forget. And imagine what it took to even get to the point where you could have a story like this. It certainly doesn’t happen to someone living a mundane life!
What a beautiful story! God is so good.
We were blown away at how God orchestrated all the details!
Thank you, thank you, thank you God for getting to see your hand in the details of our lives!
A text from Skip and Anne to pray for “a good-hearted mechanic nearby” at 0655 that morning was sent to me. I did so and also for parts. Before lunch that prayer was a praise! I’ve repeated this story a few times and will continue to share it.
God’s answer was indeed speedy!!!
Wow! Travel well. Hooray Cory!
Hebrews 13:2
2 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.
I bet Cory and his family are saying the same after meeting you and Skip! Safe travels!!!
That’s amazing! What a personal, loving God we have!
Thanks for sharing such an amazing story. Love seeing His hand in all things. Also was moved by the replies you got from people. Yes, being a Christian is never dull.
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus! 😘
When you do for God, He will do for you.
He’s faithful till the end
Sala – so glad you are following our blog again! God is indeed faithful to the end! You make our blog truly international!
Angels are always listening – it is God’s way of revealing his omnipresence. Great story Anne !
Oh, my, what a lovely Godly encounter. Thx for sharing.
How sweet and how precious is God?! I loved this story!
I love that there are still people that are willing to give their time and knowledge to strangers they meet at all kinds of places. God is good and it reminds me that each of us should give of ourselves as we can. I am thankful that Cory helped my sweet cousin come visit me in Texas. How wonderful it was to enjoy Anne and Skip in our home.
Oh how we loved being with you and Chris! We experienced so much love and laughter in our short visit. My heart is full!
Beautiful!!!!
I love this story! Thanks for sharing Anne!
What a wonderful and uplifting story Anne! Truly amazing!
As you guys travel up and down the highways take a listen to the song “Angels Among Us” by the country group Alabama. I think it fits your situation. Blessings to you both!
Joe and Pat Feyder
That is one appointment you don’t want to miss! Thank you for sharing. God is amazing ALWAYS.
Mennonites are beautiful people for sure. Your angel in disguise. Thanks for sharing. Simply extraordinary how God provides for His own!