He will make a path

This past week, Tim, the boys and I took a little trip to Red River Gorge. Since my maternity leave sadly comes to an end on Monday when I return to work, we wanted to get away for some rest, relaxation and togetherness. We were able to enjoy our time together and we were all able to take a few naps, for which Tim and I are especially grateful!

Red River Gorge boasts of abundant forests, canyons and wildlife. The location is certainly a hiker's, rock climber's and bird watcher's paradise!

During our getaway, we were able to enjoy two late morning/early afternoon hikes in the Natural Bridge State park and beyond. One such hike opened up to the Natural Bridge.

The arch on the Natural Bridge spans 78 feet and is 64 feet wide. For those without claustrophobia or acrophobia, there is also a very narrow passage-way (called fat man's misery) that permits passage to the top part of the bridge. From there, one can see the beauty of the forest and can walk just a little longer to gain a full view of the Natural Bridge from the other side of the mountain.

At first, I thought that the passage-way to the top of the bridge was man made (the stairs to the right of the arch in the photo above are part of the narrow passage-way). However, after discussion and a bit of research, we discovered that the passage-way was completely natural. This was an impressive realization to me.

This delightful discovery reminded me that God our father always prepares a path for our journey. Although He does not promise that the journey will necessarily be the easiest, the rewards at the end include promises of beauty and life.

Upon reaching the steps to the top of the Natural Bridge, I hesitated- being one who shies away from tall heights and confined spaces. Tim encouraged me on toward the very narrow path. And so, I pressed on.

The beauty at the top was well worth the journey!

In Matthew, Jesus says, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and few find it." (Matthew 7:13-14, NIV)

The narrow path leading to the top of the Natural Bridge reminds me of Jesus' statement. Although the path was extremely narrow, the choice to set aside any fears and travel onward yields a magnificent view of God's creation, not to be paralleled. Likewise, choosing God's path for our lives results in unmatched joy and the promise of an abundant eternal life. While God does not promise that the path will be clear of debris, he does promise that our rewards are with him, at the end of our journeys.

And so, like that narrow path leading to the beauty at the top of the bridge, we choose to walk in the path that God has created for our journey. Expectant that the beauty that awaits is beyond any earthly treasures that may have been gained by taking an alternate route.

How blessed I am to have such an encourager for my journey in my husband, Tim. And, how much more blessed am I that my God wants to delight me by creating the path that will offer the greatest view of His creation!

Below are a few more photos from our trip: