West Texas Trip

Recently I took a group of senior adults to West Texas. How exciting is that!!?? When you say "West Texas" that "covers a lot of ground." But we visited one of the most beautiful regions in the entire state. I'm speaking of the Fort Davis/Big Bend area. We had about 25 people in our group, including our church members and their friends and relatives. OK, I have to be honest for a moment. I took this group of seniors out to this region because I went with my family a few years ago and loved it. I figured if we had such a wonderful time out there, why shouldn't others?

The most memorable part of the trip was probably the Star Party we attended at the McDonald Observatory. If you've never been to the Observatory, let me encourage you to go as soon as you can. It's a guided tour through the night sky. And the people directing the tour are thorough experts. The following day we went back for a solar viewing to see what was happening on our nearest star, the Sun. Of course, we were watching a live telescope view of the sun that was filtered and showing on a screen in an auditorium. Afterall, we weren't stupid enough to actually look at the sun!

We also viewed the Marfa lights. These are strange and defy description. But no trip to this region would be complete without a viewing of these mysterious lights! We arrived just before sunset and it took about 45 minutes before their was any activity. But then the lights "came on." Unfortunately, a haze in the sky prevented us from seeing them more brightly. For history, we visited the Fort Davis National Historic Site. Buffalo soldiers figured prominently here in the latter part of the 19th century. They protected settlers from Apache and Comanche raids.

Visiting Big Bend National Park was an optional side trip. Ten of us went there one afternoon. I guided them straight to the Chisos Mountain Basin, where they were treated to some of the most scenic views in all of Texas. The mountains out there, rising from the desert, are majestic and awe-inspiring.

We stayed three nights at the Indian Lodge in Davis Mountains State Park, taking up 13 rooms. The Indian Lodge is a unique structure that was originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) of the Roosevelt administration, as part of the "New Deal." Since it was built, several additional rooms have been constructed. But the additions were built to look like the original hotel. All of our state parks owe a great deal of thanks to members of the CCC for building the original state park buildings and structures that we have come to love and admire today.

Leslie had to work during this trip, but I was glad my children could go. It was particulary gratifying to hear the seniors commenting on how well behaved and friendly my children were. So, all in all, we had a wonderful time out in West Texas. I know I organized this trip for a large group of people, but gosh, it kinda felt like a vacation too!

A Prayer in Remembrance of 9-11

It's only a few days until we remember the anniversary of 9-11. I wrote the following prayer to read in church on Sunday, Sept. 9th:

Almighty God, today we pause to remember the national tragedy of 9-11. This senseless act of terrorism that brought America to her knees just a few years ago reminds us that evil is very much a part of the world we live in. But you have told us to take courage, and that you have overcome the world, and to be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Make us stand strong today.

Holy Father, you are the Prince of Peace. When other world religions tell us that they stand for peace, let your people remember that true peace comes only through a right relationship with God, through Jesus Christ. We ask you to bring peace to this world. It can happen. Our pastor reminded us a couple of weeks ago of your promise that all things are possible with God.

Comforting Savior, let your mercy be upon all those who suffered the most on that fateful day, that is, those who lost loved ones and close friends. Some of them are still reeling in despair to this day. I pray that they would receive peace that passes all understanding. Now, Lord, teach us to pray like you once taught your disciples.

Our Father, which art in Heaven,

Hallowed be thy Name.

Thy Kingdom come.

Thy will be done,

in earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our trespasses,

As we forgive them that trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation;

But deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory,

Forever and ever. Amen.