We lived near the ocean dunes as a child. (No, not affluent–just close). Dad used to take us there quite often. Dune buggies had just come on the scene and they were everywhere! It was such fun watching them–until that one day (45+ years ago).
Everything was the same, the buggies going up and over the dunes. People watching, laughing–cheering them on (probably making them even more daring). Suddenly, one of the buggies went up in the air and came crashing down with the front of the vehicle hitting nose-first into the sand. I saw it as if in slow motion. There was a young man standing on the back, holding onto the crossbar as they went headfirst into the sand.
Strangely, the driver and other passengers were fine, but this young man was thrown over the vehicle with his face and, at least the upper part of his body, completely buried in the sand. People stood motionless for just a moment. Then, suddenly everyone moved into action–digging with all their might!
Oh, time was passing so quickly. All I remember thinking was this man was going to die. Would he go to heaven? What would his parents have to go through? All strange thoughts for such a young girl.
With all that was in me, I cried out to God to save this young man. “God! Please don’t let him die. Please do something”! When they pulled him out he seemed lifeless–no breath. I just kept praying. Don’t think I’ve ever prayed as hard since.
Oh, I know others were probably praying, too. But, it felt like it was just me and God. Even though I did not know much about God and our Lord, Jesus Christ at the time, I believe God honored my intercession. The boy sat up, coughed and began breathing!
