Since arriving to Southeast Asia, nothing seems real. At any moment I feel like I’m about to wake up from a dream because there’s just no way what I’m experiencing is actually my life.
Our squad embarked on a 3 day hike to start off our 11 month journey. We packed into the back of tiny vans and made our way up one of the nearby mountains – little did I know that this mountain was actually an active volcano! I wish I could put into words the beauty of which I had the privilege of witnessing. The green of all the plants and trees completely surrounded us as we continued to drive up the steep, rocky path to our destination.
When we arrived, we got our packs and made a small hike back into the more wooded area where our campsite was. We got there and I remember thinking that I couldn’t believe a place like this existed in real life – it was absolutely breathtaking!
After we got our tents up and settled in, we went exploring to check out the waterfall we heard was nearby. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better…
It did.
It took all of about 30 seconds of contemplation to decide if I wanted to jump in or not.
I did – cannonball style.
The ice, cold water perfectly balanced the heat of the sun; and soon enough, most of our squad was swimming and jumping off the waterfall! It was spectacular and an experience I hope to never forget.
Once we headed back to camp, our squad leader informed us that the military base nearby had that side of the mountain reserved and we couldn’t stay. We had to pack up all our things and find a new place to camp out at.
I was completely taken back by how well everyone reacted to this news. No one complained. No one had a bad attitude about it. Everyone just accepted the situation for what it was and looked forward to where God would lead us next.
We got back into the tiny vans and made our way to the other side of the mountain where we got dropped off at another campsite. As my group waited for the others to arrive, we noticed a family of monkeys not too far off! Time rolled on, and more monkeys started to appear – inching their way closer and closer to us. Before I knew it, I was standing 6 feet away from 2 very curious monkeys!! It was so neat!
Soon enough, the rest of our squad showed and we headed to our new campsite. And just when I thought it really couldn’t get any better.
It really did.
This place was fantastic. We were right next to a waterfall and the tent I stayed in was by the stream. Every night, the sound of rushing water was like a sweet lullaby to put me to sleep. The days were filled with fellowship with the Lord and my squadmates. We also spent much of our time hiking through jungle that had walls of green that seemed to touch the sky. I could hear the power of one waterfall after the next as I approached them and breathed in air that smelled so pure.
Attempting to take it all in, I couldn’t help but reflect on the fact that God had something better in store for us when we left that first campsite – and as far as I knew, I didn’t even think that was possible! It was in that moment God pointed out me that I need to let go of what’s in my hands to be in a position to receive what God wants to give with open hands.
Often times, that’s hard because it means stepping into the unknown. My view is so limited and short-sighted in comparison to all that God can see, but it comes down to trust.
Do I trust that God is good?
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” Psalm 34:8
These are God’s promises to us! It’s an invitation that requires a step of faith. I would encourage you to listen to God in what He may be asking you to let go. Take Him up on His promise. Leave your hands open to receive what He wants to give you instead.
