Along The Trail

a few faces stirring my heart right now

Today I'm making famous (in this small online space) a few of the faces who have been shining around Whisper Mountain very recently. A few may be familiar from a video or other spotlight moments, but what I want to share today is something that stirs my heart regularly.

God has led me and my family to share in the founding and running of this camp ministry. So it's expected we would pour ourselves out regularly for it. I am continually blown away and challenged by the people who have a few extra days, are passing through to somewhere else, or have chosen to spend a week or more with us just so they can serve. As if the serving in general isn't awesome enough, of all the places they could choose to serve, they choose Whisper Mountain! As a whole staff, we are encouraged by these people, blessed by their sharing in the effort, and grateful for their willingness to leave their mark here.

Thank you to each of you who have given of yourselves in some way to the work done at Whisper Mountain! You are a blessing!

a few new additions

A new "yawning", as Shaun calls it. He's a weirdo!

Super fun, simple field additions. Ever heard of gaga ball?

Two separate families gave a truck and pop up camper. Pretty awesome!

Comfy benches turned picnic tables to enjoy some quiet, watch the craziness, etc.

All these recent additions may seem small, but each of them has the mark of people whose hearts are filled with generosity and sharing the mission of Whisper Mountain! Whether they gave a few pennies, stood with paintbrush in hand, powered up the saw, had extra and gave in our direction...their touch is adding to the work Whisper Mountain is able to accomplish. We are blessed and encouraged.

Where can you leave your mark today? Life is best done in togetherness.  

splashes of grace

With focus, intention and creativity, his brush glides across the paper leaving a splash of color on the expanse.

Much like Daddy. May His splashes of grace fill the expanse of our today!

Listology // 4 reminders bringing renewal

When we find ourselves depleted from life's offerings we need to notice what we are feasting on. The emptiness comes when we aren't finding the substance of the Life-Giver. He is our Daily Bread. Anything else won't ever satisfy! Below are 4 reminders that may not be new to you, but may renew you. (taken from 2 Corinthians 5:16-21.) 

1. Finding Newness. Like a spring rain washing away winter's dirt, leaving the forest bright green and deep brown, almost breathing an audible sigh of relief to be made new again. Being in Christ makes us new. I can definitely use a little renewing!

2. Restored to friendship. Like a loner bullied by the world, encountering the deepest and truest friend possible, being known and accepted. Being in Christ restores us to friendship with God. Slightly mind-blowing and completely rejuvenating! 

3. Clearing the air. Like motor oil in fish gills, heavy and suffocating is the stain on my heart. Until I come to understand He doesn't count my flaws against me, but frees me from them. Being in Christ breathes new life into our beings. The fresh breath is freeing! 

4. Trusted with a mission. Like a little boy at his dad's side, doing "man's work", finding trust, growing confidence, and purpose. Being in Christ sends us on mission to share the truth of the above to those we encounter in our living. Living on purpose is exhilarating!

Dwelling on these truths today may help you find a bit of renewal! May you find satisfaction in Christ alone today!