Anne Schneider, Northeast Divisional Field Director, invited me to New Jersey to meet with women of all ages interested in beginning outreach. After several days of fruitful meetings on Detox, Conversations, and more, it was time to go home – or so I thought.

On the morning of my departure, my flight was overbooked. Since I didn’t have a seat, I was rebooked on a flight 24 hours later. Like He always does, I knew that God had a reason for the delay so I told Him I would be patient and wait for whatever that reason was.

When I shared what happened, volunteer Lorraine Monica turned my day around with a wonderful visit to the New Jersey Shore. I thanked God for the opportunity to spend more time with her.

Fast forward to the next morning, waiting in line to board my plane hoping I’d make it home this time. I prayed about what God could have in store for me on this flight. Air travel is my favorite setting for talking about Him with strangers.

Sure enough, my assigned seat was next to a young man from India named Jaye. I was so exhausted from the trip but before I knew it we were discussing God, Jesus and our faith backgrounds. We talked the entire three-hour flight and it ended up being the best evangelistic conversation I’ve ever had. I know it was because I let the Holy Spirit do the work.

We were both respectful, loving and great listeners. We talked about karma, the Trinity, sin, sacrifice, Buddha, Hindu gods, Jesus, parables, purpose, the list goes on. It amazed me that Jaye, coming from a Hindu background, tracked with everything I explained. When I shared the Gospel with him, I slowed down, trying to be as clear as possible.

“Jaye, when Jesus died He had you in mind. He died for you specifically.”

Jaye looked me in the eyes, with amazement.

When I finished sharing I asked, “Have you ever heard this before?” He had not.

Jaye has not yet decided what he really believes about God. He didn’t own a Bible so I asked him if he wanted one. He responded, “I’m not ready for a Bible. Where I am from, it is disrespectful to have a holy book and not read it, and I know I’m not ready to read it.”

I gave Jaye my card and told him that if he ever changed his mind, I would send him a Bible as a gift.

God is mysterious, His ways are better than mine. He loves Jaye so much He would delay my flight. I am so thankful I didn’t miss this opportunity.