Autumn Upriver Spokane
Have you ever lost track of time? What happens? Is it a good thing or a bad thing?
The gentle lap of water is a contrast to the roar last Spring; the river draws me like a magnet. Peace drops. I can’t help the smile that stretches my face. I come to the river to meet God. Not that I can’t meet Him in other locations, but this is somehow special.
On The Top
Recently, I visited the Spokane River at John C. Shields Park by Upriver Dam. In the Spring, the river floods here and wows me. In the Autumn, the colors are brilliant. Cliffs are ready to scale, only I just watch the rock climbers. I value my neck too highly to risk it.
A wander through a short wood leads to upward paths. So, the climb begins. Breathing hard, I stare up the trail in front of me, square my shoulders and put one foot in front of the other.
Once on top, I am rewarded with a wide view of the river valley rimmed with blue mountains. Another deep breath with the fresh scent of drying grass fills my nose. Amid the scurry of small critters, I find a sun warmed rock to sit on.
A glance across the river shows pilots practice taking off and landing.
Time With My BFF
On this lovely Autumn afternoon, the gentle mood is perfect.
So—what today, Lord?
Waiting in silence. Just taking in the peace.
I’ve been waiting for you to join me. Your company pleases me.
What’s that?
Yes, Child. All this beauty you see around you I have created to share with you.
Humbled, I listen. A cricket chirps.
Abide in Me. Seek My face and I will be found. Always.
A squirrel chatters and drops a pinecone minus it’s prickles from a nearby tree.
I will never leave you nor forsake you. Come. Let your heart not be troubled, I am building a forever home for you.
A plane drones overhead on its way back to the landing strip.
How could I ever doubt the love of Jesus? I glance around at radiant reds, oranges, yellows and evergreen—the luminous blast of color before winter, when all goes dormant before the rise of Spring.
Growing Shadows and A Wave
Shadows begin to lengthen. It is time to leave. Slowly, reluctantly, I stand up and turn to hike back down the rocky paths. Good thing I wore my hiking boots, or I’d be sliding down on my backside.
Back at the river, the watery reflection of sun sparkles. It’s like a wave goodbye and an invitation to return again.
“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me” John 15:4.
Spring Upriver Spokane
Linda Jo, I feel I’ve made the trek with you. Love how your photos bookend the post, showing the passage of time, alteration of light, the water calm, at first, then filled with movement, even as you’ve been moved, and I’ve been moved by your conversation on the hard-won summit. Thanks for this beauty at the beginning of another week. The tranquility of your experience is contagious!
Thank you for your beautiful encouragement, Laurie. I’m so glad you received a few moments refreshment, too. I love going over there!