Yesterday morning we sent off a group of around 30 members of our church family, including our daughter Olivia, to Texas to work with a small congregation there on outreach efforts this coming week. This road trip for them will be of great value to them in growing their faith and aide the membership of their hosts to restore their spirit of service and renew their efforts to reach those who have not found, or who may have forgotten about Jesus.
After sending this group off on their week long journey to Texas, Angie and I took a little road trip of our own. We set out on the highways and byways of North Central Arkansas and enjoyed the beauty of God's creation. For those who may never have been to Arkansas they have missed out, as our state is full of beauty that in many cases can only come from God. The photos I have included are from Blanchard Springs near the microscopically small town of Fifty Six, AR. What a beautiful site to have right here in our backyard.
Not only did we visit the spring, but stopped by Lake Norfork, a man made reservoir, but nonetheless capturing the beauty of God's creation all around it, Throughout the journey it was hills and curves, trees and pastures, streams and sunshine, so much to take in and absorb. The beauty of it all awoke my heart and restored my soul in a way that could not occur just hanging around the house.
The other piece of this journey was just spending some quiet time alone with my lovely wife. We don't do that enough any more. We enjoyed one another's company, talked of various subjects, and enjoyed a whole lot of oldies music, primarily from the 50's and 60's. Yes we are old souls, and yes we are proud of it. Had we not have taken advantage of this time together, in this way, we likely would have stayed in the ruts and routines of laundry and yard work. Such a day would have done little to thrill our souls or inspire us in any way. I am thankful to God for allowing us to take such a road trip, and even more thankful for what it meant to us emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.
Enjoy the beauty of God's creation. It doesn't take a grand trip to the Rocky or Smoky Mountains, a vacation at the beach, or hiking in the Grand Canyon to set our eyes on God and His vast creative powers. There are elements of it visible in everyday life, and additional bursts of it all within a one day road trip of your home, I dare say wherever you might live. To DO WELL this week I challenge you to get off the beaten path, out of your routine and to seek God in a simple yet special way.
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