In the Lord I take refuge.
    How then can you say to me:
    “Flee like a bird to your mountain…”

Psalm 11:1

In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. – Luke 6:12

Typically if you see photographs on this page then odds are I took them. Or if they’re from Miami and featuring the grandkids then it’s likely from the artistic eye of our daughter, Naomi. But then there was our trip to the North Carolina mountains a couple of weeks back, where we travelled with the Akermans… and Gayle tends to be somewhat of a paparazzi herself!

So I found this stash of images on our friends’ Facebook page and thought it would be fun to share. Gayle caught me by surprise a few times and it’s eye-opening to see how things work when the lens is turned the other way around.

Mostly, though, I think I need the opportunity to tap in once again to the serenity. The long deep breath we took up at Wild Bird was so healing and good. Just to breathe in the fresh mountain air and to let creation wash over us. I have to admit it seems so long ago now, and already I feel spent of the peace we attained during those few days.

Fortunately, however, today is Sunday; absorbing peace and experiencing regeneration are among the many benefits of going to church. Rebekah and I will be attending worship, in person, at one of the Presbyterian churches in the greater Raleigh area.

And, if any Wake Forest Presbyterian Church friends are reading this post, I assure you that we will be missing you, and thinking of you, and praying for you, and asking God’s richest blessings on all that you do.

In love, and because love is the fuel that powers The Church – DEREK