There will be a booth for shade by day from the heat, and for a refuge and a shelter from the storm and rain.
Isaiah 4:6
The Lairig Ghru is a beautiful mountain pass that crosses the central Cairngorms in Scotland. Many tackle the trail with the goal of experiencing the beauty of the countryside and unplug from the restraints of technology, work, and life. Hikers “wild camp” along the trails or take reprieve from the elements in a bothy, a basic shelter found in remote mountainous areas, should one be found.
One cool sunny day, my friend and I ventured out to begin our journey of exploration, freedom, and adventure, eager to see what God would share with us. We met fellow hikers and saw His beauty in streams, boulders, toads, slugs, clouds, and … rain. Being prepared, we secured our waterproof pants, shielded our packs, and tightened our jackets from the downpour. Hopeful each night, we prayed for a bothy to have reprieve from the marshy tent set up and take down. After four days of hiking and camping in the soggy pass, we gave up optimism of a dry night and began to prepare camp once again. Strolling to the river, I looked around the bend and thought I saw a mirage. I blinked hard and called out to my pal to verify a tiny stone structure. Could it be the infamous bothy we have read about? Amen! Yes, it was!
[God will provide] a shelter…a refuge … from the storm and rain (Isaiah 4:6). God knows our every need and provides shelter in storms of our lives. God takes our burdens, nailed them to the cross, and through Jesus’ death and resurrection, conquered all sin. With repentant and hopeful hearts, we find shelter in His love and mercy. His love never fails. A love much greater than a bothy, it will be a mansion in heaven that He has prepared for us, His faithful children!
Dr. Cari Chittick MAED '02
CUI Director, Colloquy Program