River Tales
It is November and we just received 6 inches of snow. We are 5 months away from the river season. These images draw me back to the tales of the river and inspire me to anticipate the people and adventures that await me.
I remember when:
- We set up a waterslide with paco pads and threw ourselves down the sand dune into the cold Colorado River.
- The monsoons brought waterfalls tumbling over the canyon walls as far as the eye could see. The redish, brown water cascaded down the canyon in a dramatic display of mist and spray.
- We sang for over an hour in Blacktail Canyon.
- I first experienced the warming glow of the full moon.
- Every face was streaming joyous tears as people proclaimed their faith in Christ through baptism.
- We smashed through Hermit rapid at 25,000 CFS roaring with adrenaline and shouting our sense of victory.
- A pastor from Wisconsin shared through tears his excitement about getting back to his congregation and sharing the truth of the Genesis account of our past.
- 3 young cousins splashed and laughed on the banks of the Colorado River and threw mud all over me.
- We hiked to the top of the Redwall Limestone at Emerence camp and turned to see Saddle Mountain glistening white in the evening sunlight.
- My oldest daughter and I slept under our tarps amidst an August monsoon thunderstorm. Her smile was larger than life.
- My son and I jumping off Pumpkin Spring in a display of grace and ease worthy of circus acrobats.
- My wife and I marched under Travertine Falls and took one of our all-time favorite photos.
I am anticipating:
- Exploring Grand Canyon with my youngest daughter.
- All the fantastic people I will get to meet.
- The camaraderie with the ARR boatmen.
- The sounds of Grand Canyon.
- The quiet of Grand Canyon.
- The thrill of the rapids.
- The mystery of the side canyons.
- The first morning light.
- The last evening light.
- The exploration of God’s word.
- The look of inspiration and wonderment in the eyes of the people.
- The great conversations about significant kingdom concerns.
- ALL OF IT!
Come be a part of the Grand Canyon family. Come celebrate the majesty of the creator of the universe. Come and be refreshed, challenged, and equipped! You were made for glory! You were made to last! God formed your feet to walk golden streets!
Praiseallujiah!
Jon
