beWARM

If Utah’s Zion National Park is not on your bucket list, it very well should be. The breathtaking beauty of the sandstone cliffs backed by blue skies etches itself in your memory, and permeates your being. Such glorious vistas!

Immersed in outdoor nirvana, I am awed by nature’s magnificence – but also have the utmost respect for its inherent dangers.

We hiked to Observation Point, a steep climb rewarded by a spectacular view at the top. My fear factor was highly challenged, as the path, though plenty wide, at times had a sheer drop-off on one side. I could barely look down. Heart pounding, I hugged the “safe” side of the trail while praying for secure footing.

Our other option that day was Angel’s Landing – not quite as much elevation gain, but with one “perilous” section that “should be avoided by people with a fear of heights.” I decided that the only Angel’s Landing I ever want to see is the one I (hopefully) will encounter in the hereafter, thank you very much.

Coupled with the reminders for safety on the trails were flash flood warnings. Apparently these are quite common in this narrow canyon where storms can send water crashing through, causing an instantaneous and dangerous rise in the water level.

In such an instance, trying to outrun the water is futile; getting to a higher place is the best protection.

This natural phenomena is one thing – but how about the flash floods of life? You know…those times when situations or events overtake you with such force that you don’t know what hit you? Raging currents rush in,  turning your world upside down with dizzying force.

After we recover from the shock, we look back to see if we missed the warning signs – if only we had paid more attention!

If we’re fortunate enough to recognize impending tsunamis in our lives, we can get to higher ground to avoid those life-threatening overflows.

What would you be standing on in that elevated spot?  Would you be grounded in love…faith…hope…mercy…forgiveness…compassion? Holding fast to any of these can help sustain us through all kinds of trials.

If we’re caught in the torrents by surprise, we have to trust that God will provide the strength we need to stay afloat.

And, after the storm, we can look to His warm, radiant light to heal our hurts and revive our hearts.

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown.   
When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up;
the flames will not consume you. ~Isaiah 43:2  New Living Translation