Day 3 took on a whole new set of challenges. Our team separated into two groups- those who are fast and those who are not. I felt good in the morning. The walk was strenuous, but I knew I could make it to lunch.

As we walked, I asked our lead guide, John, if he would share his testimony. This led to many theological conversations and opportunities to learn from each other. He has guided people up the mountain for more than two decades, and what a blessing he was to me and our entire team. I’ve never met someone who more perfectly embodies Isaiah 52:7 – “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”

Later in the hike, John would tell us that he had guided more teams up the mountain than he could count, but never in his 20 years of climbing had he ever led a group that lived out their faith so authentically. I think we all felt the same about him, and it was so evident that God had anointed this meeting. What a joy it was to learn from each other as we made this climb an act of worship to our God.

Our walk to lunch at Lava Tower (standing at 15,000 ft.), the highest we had been so far, took longer than expected, and our feet dragged. I remember loudly proclaiming at one point, “I’ve taken 843 steps since I last wanted to quit!” Counting steps took my mind off my pain and helped me remember I was continually moving forward. We made it to lunch and enjoyed a nice break without knowing what would lie ahead.

After eating, we were told, “We will go downhill for a bit.” They failed to mention that downhill was at least a 200 ft rock wall we had to descend, then climb over rocks and ravines for at least 2 hours before arriving at camp. Like everything, the descent took far longer than anticipated. I learned I fear heights – cliffs, ledges, and drop-offs with no gates or warning signs.

John could sense my fear and firmly took my arm, saying, “I’ve got you. You have nothing to fear.” The sun rapidly set behind us as we slowly inched closer to camp. Soon, we were hiking with only the light of the moon. I have awful night blindness, so I was not enjoying this last hour of the hike.

Lesson #2 – sometimes you can’t see where you are going, but you must trust the hand that guides you.

“Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105

A thought that kept crossing my mind as we meandered in darkness, “I just want to hug my family.” I had no family on this trip, but Yusuph is basically my brother. We finally get to camp, and the rest of the team is already eating dinner. Before I made it inside the tent, Yusuph ran to greet us and gave me the biggest hug. I immediately began sobbing, releasing the pent-up tears ever-present since the descent down the rock wall. That hug and another bowl of vegetable soup were what my heart needed that night. It was a subtle reminder from God:

Lesson #3– He promises to comfort us. We may not be removed from the pain, but our Savior meets us in the fire.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

We hiked for 12 hours that day.

To Be Continued…