I was at Beyond from July 27-Aug 3. I was with the Carmel
Baptist group...we were a group of old men!
Anyway, it was the biggest physical challenge of my life but worth the
personal and spiritual growth. Our
guides were Chris and Tyler...they did a great job leading us spiritually and
on the trail. Since returning I find myself
going back to my pictures and my journal to reflect and process our trip. My journal included some random thoughts and
phrases...I thought I would share some impactful thoughts/events/random things
that have remained with me and that God is continuing to use to grow me in my
walk.
First, as I watch my own teenagers attend YL events I am
amazed how the leaders strip away all the baggage of the day and their lives
through song and laughter which leads to the opportunity to share God's word
with them. While I was on the hike to
Albert I was stripped of all my control and the pressures of daily life. While in this state God was able to speak to
me. God challenged me with lessons about
control, joy, thankfulness, and trusting His provision. Another meaningful experience was our return
to base camp after our hike. As we
approached the dock the staff was cheering for us and then carried our stinky
packs to the barn. My eyes filled up
with tears as I witnessed this level of service...only God could inspire
someone to serve like that AND I believe it was a glimpse of the welcoming we
will receive in Heaven when we show up with our stinky, earthly lives. My experience at Beyond has changed my life
and challenged me in my walk. Here are
some random things I wrote in my journal...a few highs from the list: Swim in
the Glacier Pool, The Psalms alarm clock, Orange Rikki...a few lows from my
list: bugs, Microwave bowl, Alder trees, and bugs!
One of my favorite verses is Psalm 115:1...My time on the
hike was full of the glory of God and examples of His greatness...the beauty of
His creation screamed, "not to us but to you be the glory". Thank you so much for the experience and
challenging me to continue to grow in my walk with the Lord.
Thanks, Chad
