Staying Focused on God

The following is a devotional that I shared at school and is a reminder that in all we do our number one focus needs to be on God.

Climbing Kilimanjaro

 Day one: We began our climb in the rain forest on the Machame Route.

 Here is our campsite.  The big tent is our dining tent.  We slept in the smaller tents.

 Warming up with hot water at the end of our first day.

 Day two: We quickly gained a deep appreciation for all the porters who faithfully carried our tents, food and sleeping gear. They set up camp for us daily before we even arrived.  They were amazing to watch in action.

 Day two: We were delighted and shocked to see that we had a table for lunch.  This is camping at its best;  a delicious lunch was prepared for us while we took a break before hiking again.

A gorgeous sunset at the end of a very long and strenuous day.

 Day three: One of the shorter day hikes.

 Day three:  We hike in the Alpine Desert Region. 

Day four: Climbing on the large rocks was my favourite part of the climb.

Day five: There are three peaks on Mt. Kilimanjaro.  The highest peak is Kibo which is where we will summit.  This is a stunning view of Kibo.

 This is Mweka peak which is the second highest peak on Kili.

 Jana is trying to rest before the big summit push which begins in a few hours!

Day 6: After climbing for 6 hours in the dark like a group of marching ants with headlamps, we have reached Stella point.  We are freezing and extremely tired at this point but the summit is only a hour away and we will get there!

 We were able to hike all night with the full moon to light our way.

 I can't describe the emotions we have right now as we reached the summit.  I am thrilled to be able to raise the BCS banner that represents Hope and all the students and staff at Bearspaw Christian School.  You helped make this dream a reality and I am so grateful for all of you!

 Indescribable, uncontainable, You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.  Your are amazing God.  All powerful, untameable, awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim.  You are amazing God!

This majestic glacier lines the landscape from the summit.

 Day 7:  Homeward bound.  This was our least favourite day.  I would much rather hike uphill than to go downhill for hours in the slippery mud!