A Journey of Miracles: True Stories Depicting God's Provision

By Pastor Virgil Wynia and Pastor Becky Wynia

"He's dead! " Virgil thought searching Chris' face. He just couldn't shake the thought that he must keep praying! He continued despite not seeing any sign that the guy was responding, while good friend and recent medical student, Chris continued to pray fervently also, while watching for signs of life. The two men knew life was God's gift and death came from the enemy. They continued their quest for several minutes while the woman who was with the dead man carried on, screaming hysterically! There were no signs of life. He was clearly not responding.
They were on a remote bank of Craine Prairie Reservoir in Central Oregon's high country. There were no cell phones and there was no way to call for help! The two men were in a dingy, searching for the "perfect spot" to fish when they heard the woman's cries for help and responded.
They continued their quest for the man's life when suddenly he stirred, Virgil was sure the dead man moved!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Sep 29, 2012
• ISBN: 9781479701377

Pastor Virgil Wynia

Pastors Virgil and Becky Wynia have been ministering most of their adult lives in music, prayer and special events. They have seen miracles time and again as they've ministered to people and presented the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They have 2 daughters, 2 sons in law and 4 grandchildren that live in Oregon. Becky and Virgil reside in Santa Rosa, California.

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Copyright © 2012 by Pastors Virgil and Becky Wynia.

Library of Congress Control Number:               2012914909

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

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Contents

New Boots, New Life

What’s For Dinner, Mommy?

Resurrection Life

Leave the Driving to Someone You Can Really Trust

Behold, I Make All Things New

God, I Want To Go Hunting

Acts of God

Miraculous Intervention

He Healed Them All

God’s Multiplication

Angels All Around Us

Just God’s Children

The Good Car, Your Best One

Take Your Bible to Work

To Spread the Gospel

Miracles at the Hunting Camp

For Dave

More Everyday Miracles

A Visit From Michael

Family Fun

The Mission

The Next Step

Running Over

Lord, We Need A Car

Miracles in the Rockies

God’s Deal

Dead Man at Crane Prairie

Go Ye

I Don’t Want to Make Pizzas!

Plant a Garden, Becky

Shutters

Abbey’s Gone

A Dog’s Life

A Cowboy’s Nightmare

Abbey’s Homecoming

Lisa and Doug

Amanda

Life Changes

Will Doug be Left Behind?

Go Into the Valley

Virgil Wynia and I have been married 38 years. Some good, some not so good. We are working class pastors who have had to believe God for many, many things and situations. We’ve had our share of trials, tribulations, family, medical and otherwise. I decided to write this book when one of our Pastors, Christopher Spanbauer of Bend Faith Center said my husband and I have experienced more miracles than any two people he has personally known. This book is a collection of some of the miracles we have experienced. Not every miracle we have experienced is in this book, but many of them are contained herein. This book is a collection of eye witness accounts, centered on the miracles we have experienced. In some cases names have been changed. In other cases the names are original. In all cases the stories are true.

Accounts of miracles can be found in the Bible. The Word of God says if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed (that’s really small!) you can speak to the mountain and it shall be removed! My husband, Virgil puts it this way What are you expecting to happen? Are you expecting a miracle, or not? You will receive exactly what you are expecting! Expect God’s Best! In the Gospels Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead, turned water into wine and much more. He told us (the church) and these signs will follow those that believe (Mark 16:17-18) They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. We find elsewhere in the scripture I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). Hebrews 11:1 tells us Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Faith is the title deed to our answer. The key here is living on the path God has for us. We need to be in the right place at the right time! This is called obedience! Romans 1:5 says By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations for His Name. God always knows best! He always has our good in mind and He always chooses the very best for His children! All we have to do is obey! I assure you there is no more exciting life than living fully on the path He has chosen for you! You will experience love like you’ve never known, relationships to their fullest, life changing events and miracles! Yes, I said miracles! God is alive and well and He’s just waiting for you to let Him give you His Life, to be Live Your Best Life Ever!

The miracles in this book and those that we experience in our Christian lives are not to be confused with white magic or any other type of activity associated with new age or satanism. There is a huge difference. The difference is literally 180 degrees. Biblical miracles are the original, the authentic, from God. Anything else is from the dark side and is very dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.

I was raised in a strong Christian home and environment. My parents spent much time in Christian ministry as my husband and I do. Oftentimes the paycheck doesn’t match the outgoing efforts. Such has been the case, much of my life. My husband and I were both young Christians when we met and married in 1974. We give thanks and praise to God, our heavenly Father for all He has done for us! He is our source, the all sufficient One!

Thus, I begin this book with one of the first miracles I witnessed as a young teenage girl, prior to meeting my husband, Pastor Virgil Wynia.

New Boots, New Life

I was in high school, I believe I was a sophomore the year this astounding event took place. I had an acquaintance who happened to be dating my boyfriend’s brother. The four of us spent our Sunday evenings in church and then the youth service afterward.

She wasn’t a Christian, the other 3 of us were. Her name was Lynda.

Lynda came from a dysfunctional home, of sorts. Her father was an alcoholic and her mother had a tendency to be the same, from time to time.

Lynda just weathered it. She would talk of her parents immaturity and laugh, thinking it funny. To me it was sobering. I couldn’t imagine living in that hell. I had witnessed to her about the love of Christ and she had heard about His saving grace each Sunday evening at church. She said it wasn’t for her.

One day while we were walking together to our next class she commented on the black patent knee boots I was wearing. I was pretty proud of those boots. Coming from a family like mine, I was really fortunate to have them. Mother had bought them brand new for me. You see, most of our clothing and shoes came from the missionary barrel, a collection of used, donated items for families in ministry. These boots were fashionable and comfortable and kept my feet dry during the wet winters we experienced in Sonoma County. I thanked Lynda for the compliment and then the idea hit me, so I acted on it.

Try them on, I said as I stopped to lean against the bank of lockers while I unzipped them.

What? she asked, incredulously?

Here, try them on, I insisted. She slipped out of her worn out black flats and into those cool boots! (And they were really cool!)

Wow! I remarked! They fit you perfectly! And they did! They looked great on her I thought as I slipped into her black flats with the soles completely worn through. My toes hit the cold, wet pavement and I drew them back!

She ‘modeled’ as she turned, putting one hand behind her head and smiling brightly! I admired their shiny sleekness and up to date look. They were quite attractive on her!

They’re yours! I heard it come out of my mouth and thought, well Lord, I will sacrifice my boots if you will touch her heart! I know you can and I know you want to"!

She whirled about in amazement and looked me in the eye. What!? No way! she retorted!

Yes way I shot back! I want you to have them. I want to do something special for you, I smiled at her. "You see, God told me to give you those boots. He wants you to have them!"

In shock, she darted around and she stared in utter unbelief at me. She didn’t speak, then I saw a tear spill over the lower rim of her deep blue eyes. She looked down and grabbed me and hugged me. Thank you, she whispered as she scurried away.

I wiped a tear from my eye as I thanked the Father for touching her heart.

That afternoon I got off the bus and met Mother waiting in the family car. She looked down at my feet and said where did you get those old things?!

I told her the story. She was incredibly touched. We both were, but the fact remained, we had no money and I needed some shoes for school!

That afternoon a card came from my Aunt Dona. My birthday was a few days away. In the card was a five dollar bill. Just the amount we needed to buy the shoes I’d had my eye on! Amazing how that worked. But the best was yet to come!

The following Sunday evening we all went to church and at the end of the service Lynda went to the altar (with me in tow, wiping tears of gratitude from my eyes) to give her life to the Lord!

You see, when God speaks and asks you to give something as miniscule as a material possession, a pair of inexpensive boots, he makes it worthwhile! (Phillippians 4:19) Her life was changed . . . . forever! (John 3:16) And all for a pair of shoes! I learned a valuable lesson that evening! Always, always listen and obey the Lord!

What’s For Dinner, Mommy?

The winter of 1981 was filled with trying times and yet great triumphs. In November our baby daughter, Courtney was born. I had been sick with what the doctors thought was an inflammatory condition that plagued me with great pain. We both had jobs and were grateful for our small family.

I was working for a major drug chain, and the work was quite physical. Working through my entire pregnancy was the plan. I’d carefully saved my sick leave and vacation time and had about 4 weeks of paid time off.

Things were tight financially. We had high fuel bills due to the cold winter and heavy snows. After the 4 weeks were up we had nothing to fall back on.

As I sat at the piano, worshiping the Lord, one morning, I began to ask Him, then thank Him for supplying every need, according to His riches in Glory, by Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19). Though I wasn’t sure what it really meant, I had an idea. What I did not know was, we were about to find out!

Little Chelsea, our five year old wandered into the living room that morning. Placing her tiny hand on my arm to get my attention, she whispered, What’s for dinner, Mommy?

Hmmm, I replied, turning from the piano to face her. I’m not sure . . . I guess it’s a surprise! I pulled her close and we hugged.

I knew the freezer and refrigerator were empty, the cupboards bare, nearly literally.

She ran back into her bedroom to play. I turned back to the piano and again began to worship the Lord. I knew I could count on Him. We were faithful givers, tithing every Sunday, giving over and above to those in need and also the work of the Lord.

After feeling the heaviness in my soul leave, I got up from the piano and walked into the kitchen, leaving baby Courtney sleeping soundly in her little infant seat beneath the piano. She often slept under the piano. Later in her life when we were blessed with a baby grand she would curl up beneath it and listen to me play, falling asleep. To this day she loves worship music!

Nothing had changed in my kitchen. The cupboards were not burgeoning with staples. I opened the pantry cupboard, staring at the lone box of red jello and the small bit of flour (about 2 tablespoons) in the bottom of the almost empty 10 lb. bag.

God, I don’t know what you’re going to do, but I know it’ll be good!

We had eaten the last bit of oatmeal for breakfast that morning and I’d fed Chelsea the last dab of peanut butter on the final slice of bread, for her lunch.

Stooping down, I reached and opened the canned goods cupboard. I got down on hand and knee and discovered a can of applesauce, far in the back of the lower shelf.

Thank you Father! I gratefully breathed!

In my head I was having trouble putting the combination together! There were no eggs, not enough flour to make pancakes and we had no syrup or ingredients to make syrup anyway. There was no sugar, no maple flavoring and no butter. I didn’t know what I was going to do.

What could I make with about 2 tablespoons of flour, a small box of red jello and a can of applesauce?

There was formula for the baby. I was so thankful that baby Courtney would eat. I would see that Chelsea ate as well. And in my heart of hearts I knew our Heavenly Father loved her more than I did. I was convinced we were having something special for dinner that evening. It was going to be a surprise!

Just then Chelsea wandered back through the kitchen. Do you know yet what we’re having for dinner, Mommy? she smiled up at me.

Nope! I replied reaching down and sweeping her up in my arms. I planted a huge kiss on her soft cheek. It’s a big suprise!

Ooooo! she squealed with delight! "I love surprises!" She wrapped her arms around me and squeezed me tight!

Me too! I hugged her back.

I put her back on the floor and she ran off to play.

Okay, God! I breathed a silent prayer, I’m counting on you!

The afternoon wore on. Baby Courtney woke and then slept again, waking for her 4 pm feeding. When she had drained her bottle, I held her up to burp her, then changed her diaper and laid her down for her late afternoon nap, in her cradle, next to our bed in the master bedroom.

Chelsea was playing quietly in her room with her kitty and her dollies. I peeked in on her, watching her deep in child’s play. She was the Mommy, carefully mothering the family cat and her My Friend Mandy doll and Baby Huggums! The cat lay in the doll buggy, prone on her back, waiting patiently to be released! She was dressed in a doll gown and bonnet. The look she gave me was one of P-l-e-a-s-e help me! Felix was a wonderful cat and she loved our family, watching over our girls much like a family dog would! She was truly amazing!

I love you sweetie! I called out from the doorway.

Love you too, Mommy! she smiled her sweet, Chelsea smile!

Heading down the hall toward the kitchen, I flipped on the light and opened the cupboard. There was the box of red jello and the flour. I reached up and pulled out the box of red jello.

Dutifully pulling out a glass bowl I began to mix the jello adding the hot water, mixing thoroughly, then adding the cold water and ice and mixing it again. I placed the jello in the empty refrigerator.

This was pretty bad. We had never been this low on food. We’d had some medical bills associated with my illness and of course the birth of sweet Courtney.

I steeled my resolve. I knew God was coming through with dinner that night. And I knew He would come through with breakfast the next morning as well! I just knew it! I’d come to expect His provision! I made a conscious decision to focus on His promise instead of the problem. (That was a real wow moment for me)!

Wandering back into the living room I flipped on the television. Flopping down on the couch, I pulled my feet up and snuggled into the huge sofa pillows. I pulled the afghan off the back of the couch and tucked it in around my feet. The temperature was dropping drastically as the darkness settled in. I glanced out the large front window at the view of the city of Bend. It was a beautiful view looking south from the lower West Hills. It dawned on me that God had blessed us with this beautiful home! We were renting it, but we were in one of the nicest neighborhoods in Bend! We had a beautiful view of the city and the area was filled with large custom homes on generous sized lots! We were blessed! Several months before, we had been on a drive when we found the house. It was in disrepair but it was for rent. We called and the price was reasonable so we set up a tour with the local realtor that was representing the out of town owner. We took it as is and worked off the security deposit. The owner paid for the materials. It was a beautiful home! My Dad came up on his vacation, the week before we were to move in, and helped Virgil get all the repairs done. I was pregnant with Courtney and we needed a larger home. We had been in a two bedroom rental.

Within days we were moving in and enjoying the beautiful home! Chelsea met new friends on our block and we were quite happy there.

I was jarred back into the present by the headlights sweeping over the front of our house as Virgil pulled into the driveway. Jumping up, I folded the afghan and laid it neatly back upon the couch. I turned and skipped to the kitchen, throwing open the back door to greet my husband!

Hey! he yelled from the carport just a few feet below the deck, Come here! You ve gotta see this! He was standing behind the car with the trunk open, staring into the open trunk, pointing at the contents.

I couldn’t see what was in the trunk from my vantage point and really had no idea what he might be pointing at! Just a minute! I called to him, let me get my boots on!

Chelsea appeared behind me in the doorway. What is it, Daddy? she asked in her little girl voice.

A surprise, honey! he grinned and came to the door, picking her up he held her tight, kissing her cheek.

She laid her head on his shoulder lovingly.

I bounded down the stairs and met them at the trunk of the car. When I rounded the corner of the rear, left fender where I could see into the trunk, my eyes grew wide! I couldn’t believe what I was seeing! That gigantic trunk of that old 1968 Buick was filled to the brim with small packages all neatly wrapped in white butcher paper!

What is it? I curiously and excitedly asked? It certainly looked like meat to me!

Venison! I picked up my deer at the butcher’s and guess what? Virgil was so excited he couldn’t contain himself, "the butcher gave us an extra deer!"

"An extra deer? I wasn’t quite getting what he was saying. How did he do that?" I asked, staring at him in disbelief! (Oh ye of little faith)!

Well, he called me at work today and said, ‘Please come and get your deer!’ I told him we wouldn’t have the money to pay him until I got paid. He said ‘Come and get it anyway! I need the freezer space!’ So I drove out there, that’s why I’m late getting home. When I went into the shop he yelled back at his helper to bring out my deer. They came out with two large carts full of meat! He told me he was giving me this extra one because another guy never picked his up from first season. He said he didn’t have the room to store it! There’s almost 180 pounds of meat there, sweetie! My deer was a monster!

I began to cry! There was nearly two hundred pounds of fresh, wholesome, natural meat in the huge trunk of that old car! I was the one who was surprised!

Wow God! was all I could say! Wow! You really did it!

I felt Him say to my spirit, I really do love you and your family, Becky!

Virgil grabbed me in his other long arm, Don’t cry honey! he reached out to wipe away my tears.

Is this the surprise, Mommy? Chelsea grinned at me!

Yes baby girl, this is our surprise! God has bountifully blessed us! It’s ‘pork chops’ tonight!

We never told our girls while they were growing up that they were eating venison or elk. They never would have eaten it. They loved the wildlife around us!

We all hugged and laughed!

Well, I’d better get this meat put away! Virgil handed Chelsea my way and started packing the meat to the freezer.

It’s backstrap tonight! I heard him exclaim!

Backstrap is the very tender cut along the spine of the animal, on the top of it’s back. It is the most tender and tasty part of the deer! It’s also very lean, as most of the wild animal would be. A good hunter or butcher cuts most of the fat away. The fat is very wild tasting and ruins the flavor of the meat. Oftentimes when cooking deer or elk a good cook will need to add fat, usually pork, beef or oil of some sort.

I climbed the stairs, carrying my precious daughter, my heart so full of gratitude! God you are sooo good! Thank you, Father! Thank you!

Once in the kitchen, I put her down and she scrambled out to the living room. I reached for the flour bag with the dab of flour in the bottom. As I pulled it out of the cupboard I thanked God for that little dab of flour!

Pouring the last bit of cooking oil (about 1 tablespoons) into the large iron skillet, I heated it up and poured the flour into a small bowl. I seasoned it carefully and opened the package of backstrap. I laid out each piece of our miracle meat on two plates. Then I took each piece and rolled it in the flour mixture and laid it carefully in the skillet. The tears ran down my face! I was still in great amazement over the timing of this blessing! The meat sizzled and filled the kitchen with a beautiful aroma!

God, you are so amazing! I quietly prayed as I stood at the stove that evening, cooking our dinner. I set it to simmer for a few minutes and put a lid on it, dashing back to the master bedroom to check on baby Courtney. She was just waking and stirring. I gently picked her up and cuddled her close.

Our children are our greatest blessing next to God and our mates! We certainly loved those precious little girls!

I carried her out to the dining area adjoining the open kitchen and placed her gently in her baby swing. Tucking her in to prop her up, I wound it up and set the motion on slow. She loved her little swing! She could be