Written by Renee’ McCullough
Today was an eclectic day in many ways. As we arose at the North Buffalo Community Church, there was a sense of anticipation among our group. Our destination, Niagara Falls, was a short 16 miles away – less than the distance to our usual rest stops. In fact, most people were packed up and finished with breakfast in advance of the 7 am breakfast time. Lauren’s devotion reminded us that all of our experiences together on this ride contribute to building relationships that will impact us beyond this present journey – and that we thus need to use the opportunities we have to influence each other positively.
With this inspiring send-off, we did the fairly easy ride along scenic waterfronts and through peaceful villages, arriving at Holy Trinity Church in Niagara Falls. After unloading and doing some basic organization, small groups made plans see the Falls – some on the American side, some on the Canadian side, some by boat and some by the cave tour. When my boat on the Maid of the Mist tour approached the falls, I was struck by the majesty of God’s creation and kept singing to myself, “Our God is an awesome God, he reigns from heaven above; with wisdom, power and love, our God is an awesome God.”
Dinner was provided by our host, the Niagara Heritage of Hope and Service, who also provided dinner for about 75 participants in a summer youth ministry program and about 50 community members. We had an unexpected opportunity to serve this diverse group by helping to grill hamburgers and clean up afterward. I see this as a definite application of our morning devotion – being ready to serve God as he directs and to positively impact others in the process. We were even able to do this while admiring the beauty of the Falls, as we explained the significance of our orange shirts and our mission to others along the way. Time and again through this journey, God reminds me that it is not about me or the ride, but about serving Him through the work he has given each of us. Our God IS an awesome God!
