There was something that just felt so right about coming back from these amazing hikes and then giving praise to the One who created it all. Every day we were reminded just how great and awesome our God is, how small we are in this world, and how much God loves us. It is so humbling to think how the God and creator of the universe, of every single mountain, glacier, tree, creature, star, planet … created me too … He knows my name … and knows every single thing about me to the core of my very being and loves me more than I will ever fully understand.
And for the people and relationships built on this adventure …
Okay, first let me explain to you that I am very much an introvert. I enjoy quiet alone time very much. I enjoy being around people too, but it can be draining for me and hard for me to open up to new people. Josh and I didn’t know anyone on this trip beforehand. There were 12 people in our group who were from various parts of the United States, plus an Argentine guide that stayed with us.
Getting to know this group of people, getting to experience these amazing sights and challenges with them, getting to worship and pray with them … it was everything. It was just as amazing as the Patagonia beauty. I did not experience the introvert draining of energy that sometimes comes from being in a group of people. I experienced a strengthening of joy and spirit. I walked away with new friends who felt like family, who I was comfortable being myself around, with whom I had shared in some deep and meaningful conversations. None of that will be easily forgotten, and all glory to the God who unites us all.