Joyfully, as we prepare for the Lenten Season, Isaiah’s action words – guide, satisfy, and strengthen – remind us of God’s faithfulness. Psalm 23 also demonstrates God’s continual faithfulness.
We were excited to arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park. While hiking the trail down to the Colorado River, many “oohs” and “aahs” were voiced as we gazed at the majestic view. Suddenly, we realized our water supply was left behind. My husband voiced, “We must go back.” “No!” At the river, a direction sign read, “Going back up is 2x coming down.” While ascending the trail, one member’s knees gave out, and the group dismantled to find help, leaving three members behind.
Determined, I was climbing with one bottle of water and horehound candy drops. I found myself alone, in solitude and serenity while climbing among the beautiful semi-arid desert’s landscape. I marveled at the topography, the magnificent sunset colors, and the darkening of the sky with the moonlight reflecting against the strata. I sat down to rest. Strengthened, I moved my hands to lift myself up and felt a plastic jug. I shook it – its contents sounded, smelled, and tasted like refreshing water. Suddenly, a voice from an upper ridge rang out, “Charlie, are you there?” I dared to respond. Quickly, I filled my empty bottle with water from the jug. Again, “Charlie, are you there?” I answered, “No, Charlie is not here.”
Suddenly, a stranger approached and offered assistance. Finding a telephone, I sought help for family members.
Prayer
Creator God, my soul thirsts for Thee.
Rev. Carolyn Cummings-Woriax is retired clergy