We were on the trail for a second day, about 15 miles from nowhere in any direction when I felt increasing pain on my right side. It was nearly debilitating before I expressed my dilemma to my backpacking companions. Our experienced leader whipped out some Tylenol and Aleve, xplaining the recommended doses, how long they take to take effect, and what the results ought to be. I don’t take drugs, ordinarily, not even Aspirin unless I’m desperate, but desperate times call for desperate measures. I took the drugs, and after resting for a few minutes, we were off again.
The pain quickly subsided (too quickly to have been the drugs) and never recurred! I made it through the 12-mile hike that day over some of the most rugged terrain I have ever seen in the U.S. and we spent a second of three nights in the wilderness. An encounter with a rattlesnake, filtering water from stagnant springs, sleeping in ancient ruins, and discussing spiritual things with our professing atheistic friend were the highlights for me. Great reminder of what is important in life and of what the actual essentials are. Should be good preparation for living out of my car much of the summer!
What a privilege to be invited by friends to join this trip! It will be the last major fling before I travel East, I’m pretty sure. And in the meantime, there is lots going on at IBC (see invitation below).
Prayer requests:
- That the Student Ministry Showcase May 19 would bring someone to Jesus.
- That all the students slated to graduate this year will actually do so, in God’s will!
- That the new library groundbreaking would bring glory to God.
- For safety and God-arranged contacts as I hit the road, starting May 26.
- That I would be a blessing this summer, sensitive to the Lord’s direction.
Gratefully,
Martha
INDIAN BIBLE COLLEGE
CELEBRATION WEEKEND
MAY 19-20, 2017
