Learning from Detours

Now that we have figured out how this motorhome works, we are thoroughly enjoying our travels! Yesterday we drove from Amarillo, Texas to Arizona! As we were driving through New Mexico, we saw that there was going to be a significant traffic slow down on the interstate due to construction, and Google Maps suggested an alternate route. We had been thinking it would be good to take some side roads to see more. So we decided to go for an adventure! 

As we travelled this alternate route we saw on the map that there was an ice cave and a volcano a short hike from the main road. At first David didn’t believe that there was an ice cave in New Mexico in the summer, but he agreed to stop. It was so much fun! We saw this fascinating part of New Mexico. The ice in now 20 feet thick! 

It was also great to get some exercise as we had been sitting for many hours of driving. Along the path we saw so many interesting things that were new to us and even hiked the volcano. I loved the trees along the way. What a beautiful place! 

As I think about this unplanned side trip, I am reminded how God blesses us with unexpected detours in life. No one loves hearing that a 7 hour drive is turning into an 8 hour one. But that unexpected detour was a blessing to our family. I am reminded of a line from one of the songs that I have written about before. “You bring beauty from ashes.” This volcano is another picture of how God brings amazing beauty from literal ashes. Even though the volcanic eruption was violent, there is now this amazing landscape with ice caves in lava tubes, and new life growing on this volcanic soil. 

In the midst of the unexpected detours and volcanic eruptions of life, we often feel overwhelmed and discouraged. But our omnipotent God brings blessing. Sometimes I am too busy complaining or focusing on the frustration to see it. It is my prayer that you and I will see the beauty and blessing in the midst of the detours. When we are in the midst of the volcano erupting and we can’t see, I pray that we will walk by faith. May the God of this amazing Universe, give us faith and joy to see the beauty today!