The Joy Of Discovery

Turning around was a hard decision. Climbing with a pack and rifle is never easy. The ridgeline that I wanted to hunt went on for miles. I'd been climbing all morning. Here I was just a few feet away, but the crevasse in front of me was impassable (translated 'impossible'). Whether I'm hiking or climbing, I always experience a sense of disappointment when I'm forced to stop and turn around. 

This is almost always the case, but disappointing nonetheless. In front of me is country I've never seen. It's wilderness to explore. It's the adventure of stepping into the unknown. The joy of discovery is one of God's gifts to all of us. Think of the delight on God's face as Adam and Eve discovered each new place, the taste of each new fruit, the smell of each new flower, the awe as they saw their first sunrise... 

Add to that the joy of discovering one another... their similarities and differences... their sense of humor and capacity to love. Friend, do not forget the joy of discovery. Build a little adventure into your life. Meet someone new, go somewhere new, learn something new, and you will be blessed! -Pastor Brad

Written on January 10, 2025