This is the first of a two-part series about encountering many surprises during our May 2013 backpacking trip, including 7 inches of rain. Click here for part 2.
Part 1: Friday, May 18
The basic idea behind Reboot Wilderness Adventures is to help people reconnect with God while studying His word and exploring His creation in the Alabama wilderness. It’s designed to be a short overnight backpacking/camping adventure where we are just enough removed from civilization that we experience a real sense of wilderness but close enough to assistance if any emergencies arise. While I usually plan the route, take precautions and plan what themes and Bible passages I feel like God is calling me to share, I always leave room for and expect that we will encounter God’s presence on the trail during our trips.
The view from our planned campsite along the Pinhoti on a much sunnier day.
On our May 17-18 overnight backpacking trip to the Cheaha Wilderness in east Alabama, we expected to hike the 7.5 mile Cave Creek Loop and spend a night on the trail. But God gave much more of an adventure than we ever thought possible. It was an adventure full of lightning, storms, soaked gear and washed out roads and trails. About 7 inches of rain later, we loved every minute of it.
The Reboot ministry is very new. We are still spreading the word about our men’s trips around Frazer and around Montgomery. While many expressed interest, May seemed to be a busy month. Two men joined me on the first trip, my old friends Jeff Thomas and Josh Razavi. This is a key fact and something that God in his wisdom and much greater ways had obviously planned.
Jeff and I have been backpacking in Cheaha several times, but this was the first time for Josh. The three of us were roommates for a couple of years in college.
Earlier this year, Josh committed his life to Christ after straying from his faith for several years. We reconnected soon after, and I remain in awe of how strong his faith is even after the deaths of his mother and stepfather within weeks of each other earlier this spring. Jeff and I were excited to hang out with Josh and hear about how God is working in his life.
Reboot Wilderness Adventures 