Climbing Las Nalgas

As I have previously written about in My Mountain Tops, I pray best when hiking.  Being in nature and seeing the beauty of the Divine Creator makes me realize the boundless love of God.  I have been missing it greatly since arriving in Honduras.  God has blessed me and allowed me to learn to see His goodness in a many new ways.  I have learned how to pray, even in the noise, even away from nature.    But this past weekend, I am so grateful I got to pray in the way I know best - hiking!

Julie and I ventured back to Lago de Yojoa and we were blessed with absolutely beautiful weather! Bright blue skies, nice warm sunshine, and enjoyable temperatures made for an amazing hiking opportunity.  So on Saturday afternoon we met up with our local tour guide, Freddy, and we started walking to "Las Nalgas".  (If you want a good laugh, look up the translation.)  I was surrounded by little gifts from God and we headed towards our goal.

The climb was good, muddy, and steep.  I was able to reflect on challenges and perseverance in regards to faith as I encountered them physically.  The elevation change required multiple breathing breaks, including one where I almost sent Julie and Freddy ahead without me.  But I was remind of God's grace and patience as Julie insisted that they wait for me.  It was such a wonderful reminder that we cannot do things alone and that God will never leave us abandoned.  

When we finally made it to the top, we went to the town-side viewpoint first.  It was breathtaking! Large birds soaring overhead, blue skies, the mountains in the distance, and the town in the valley.  Everything seemed to be a peace - quiet and calm. We sat for a while, silently absorbing all of God's goodness.  My heart was so joyful in the silence and I couldn't help but feel the embrace of our loving Father through the beauty around me.

After relaxing and soaking it all in for a bit, we moved over to the lake-side viewpoint. This view was even more stunning than the first!  The predominately clear skies, the beautiful mountains, the clear lake, and the gorgeous marshland was incredible to see! 

As I stood at the top, I reflected on God's great goodness and His never ending love for me.  I am happy that I was able to climb Las Nalgas and I hope I have the opportunity to hike and pray again soon!