[This article was orginally published in the Winnebago County Tribune, March 24, 2026. Some content has been expanded since I have more space here.]

I am writing this article while on our 7th and 8th grade Destination D.C. trip. I am using this time as a devotional exercise as I pay close attention to God sightings this week. I hope you enjoy these and glorify God with me.

Day 1 – Saturday/Sunday: Mayah and I had to be at the school by 11:40 PM (Saturday) to prepare for a 12:30 AM (Sunday) departure. We were supposed to leave at 2:30 AM (Sunday) but an impending blizzard warning changed our plans. Many prayers were prayed by many people. We were able to get out of Iowa ahead of the dangerous winter storm and enjoy our itinerary items for the day. Thank You, God, for the safe travels.

Day 2 – Monday: We were at the Gettysburg National Cemetery. While there, our tour guide asked us to look at the tomb stones and find one that speaks to us and then thank them. I walked along the rows but I could not find one, but rather I saw each and every one and thus thanked them all as they all sacrificed for this country. Thank You, God, for those who have and currently serve our country.

Day 3 – Tuesday: This God sighting was nearly literal. I was getting situated on the bus after touring the Lincoln Memorial when Olivia, an 8^th grader, showed me a “little Jesus” figurine that hit her in the head. Apparently, someone was throwing them out at the memorial. She thought that was so cool. Tessa, my seat mate, then proceeded to tell me how she likes to hand those out. Later that night, I told Malachi that story before bed and he said, “When I go on my D.C. trip, I am going to throw out little Jesus’”. I wish I had thought of that idea. Maybe I will join him in that activity. Thank You, God, for reminders of Jesus in my life.

Day 4 – Wednesday: So many moving parts today and so many opportunities for something to go wrong to affect our plans: Seventy plus people on their own for three hours in Washington D.C. and then regrouping – on time, heavy traffic littered with accidents slowing our travels, leading all these kids as we walked city streets to get to the White House. But everything went smooth as God blessed our details. Thank You, God, for calming the waters and giving us smooth sailing.

Day 5 – Thursday: Today we toured the Capitol, went to Arlington National Cemetery and watched the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and then visited the Iwo Jima Memorial. I was reminded today that even though we may have issues in this nation, God has blessed us with a great nation in which to live. Let us work together to be an example for other nations. Thank You, God, for the United States of America.

Day 6 – Friday: Mayah and I had to fly home early. Six minutes before boarding we found out we were being bumped from our flight because they overbooked the plane by eight people. Frustrated, angry, worried, etc, I could not see past my situation. After boarding was complete, apparently someone did not show, so Mayah and I were the first ones allowed back on, but not just on, we got upgraded to first class. God, now You are just showing off. What an awesome God You are.

What a fun week. God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good. Amen.