The American Chronicles exists to tell the story of the greatness of America that we do not hear from the news media in all of its “sky is falling” missives. As we close out 2023, we wanted to share again with you about some of the people we have met in our travels. These are folks who make a difference in people’s lives, who look at their fellow human beings from the lens of what is good and right. They are the everyday unsung heroes because of their deeds, or attitudes, or hearts toward others. We met so many fine people and this column would take days to read if we were able to mention all of them. Here are a few that stood out, not to take away from our friends and family that hosted us along the way.
We met Rob from Richmond in Chincoteague, Va. As we talked, I could tell that Rob was a follower of Christ. His 10 year old son Jeff passed away with brain cancer. I asked him how Jeff’s death affected his relationship with God. Without hesitation, Rob replied, “It drew me closer than ever.” He explained how he and his Labrador Retriever began to visit kids in hospitals with various illnesses to bring some joy during difficult times. Rob said he knew that Jeff was with Jesus and that they all would be reunited someday. These days, Rob and Mary travel and camp whenever they can. He said that despite what you hear on the news, “There are a lot of wonderful people across the country.”
In Ashland, Va., we met John Vincent. John and Barbara Vincent have been married 64 years. Together they have camped in 49 states, beginning out of their car, then a pop-up trailer, then a larger camper, bringing them to the 14-year old Airstream. But there is so much more to this 85-year old super star. He and Barbara have pioneered a church planting initiative in remote areas of Mexico often among the drug cartel-controlled areas—something they are still doing. He had so many wonderful testimonies about connecting people with the love of Christ. His card, quoting Christ in John 14:6 “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,” also says, “Retired—Now Working for Jesus.” Somehow, I think John’s been doing that most of his life. He is an inspiration and a remarkable man.
Located on the serene banks of a place called Portage Lakes, Ohio, Cindy and Steve’s property is like a resort, but it’s their home that they believe is God’s gift to share with others. On any given weekend, people come from all around to enjoy that gift. A tour of the lake in their pontoon boat can be had, or one can just float out and relax in the afternoon sun. Time at their place should be scheduled because their home has become a popular setting for missionaries to take retreat, friends to enjoy boating, church groups to fellowship, and large family gatherings many times during the year. Hebrews 16:13 is Cindy and Steve’s mission: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
Leaving Valley Forge toward Connecticut, we were headed toward an overpass that would have clipped the top off of our camper and a man pulled along-side us motioning for us to pull over. He told us what was going to happen, then offered to take us around the overpass and put us on the path to our next stop. We didn’t get his name, but from the goodness of his heart, he saved us from ruin. Hebrews 13:2 says, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Strangers or angels, our faith is our bond and inspiration. America was built on faith and hope. And no matter how hard the media and politicians try to convince us that we are no longer that type of nation, there are still those great Americans that restore our faith and bring hope for the future. We are thankful for them and you! More to come!
