HAPPY NEW YEAR, ALL YE WHO FLURISH WITH JESUS!!!

Before the idea of Santa Claus entered the thoughts of mankind there lived a good King in Bohemia.

It was during the Dark Ages that a Duke and Duchess of Bohemia gave birth to twin sons: Wenceslaus and Boleslaus.

Wenceslaus, the elder by just minutes, was raised primarily by his devout Christian grandmother, Ludmilla, who taught him the importance of faith, love and hope.

Unfortunately, the twin’s father, Duke Borivoy met his death in 922 during battle passing his title to Wenceslaus at the tender age of fifteen.

The new young Duke set up a nation built upon the principles of Scripture including ruling by true justice and mercy.

He travelled the countryside often to see for himself what his people needed. He took pity on the poor and shared meat, drink, firewood and kindness wherever he went. He also urged the wealthy in his country to do the same.

His example spread and revival broke out in Bohemia like never before.

Wenceslaus adored Christmas and began special gift giving at Christmastime before it ever became a tradition.

He travelled to the neediest of his subjects one after another delivering food and clothing on the night before Christmas no matter the fierceness of the weather.

Wenceslaus continued his fair rule and loving acts for 7 years until he met his untimely death at the hand of his jealous twin.

In his dying breaths he forgave his brother and immediately Bolelaus’ heart melted and he repented of his evil.

Boleslaus turned to God and tried to carry on the beautiful things his brother had instituted in the Name of Christ.

Later, Roman Emperor Otto posthumously granted regal dignity and title to Wenceslaus, which is why he is referred to as a King in the Christmas carol GOOD KING WENCESLAUS.

More than legend, (claimed as fact by Pope Pius II) it’s an interesting story of a historical figure and true follower of our Savior.

The carol was written by John Mason Neale in 1853. The hymn writer ran across an old biography of the Bohemian Duke while searching Latin archives of songs and text. He could identify with Wenceslaus’ charitable compassion for he too diligently served his fellowman.

The final verse of the carol parallels our walk with Christ and the importance of giving in love because of our faith not in Santa but in the Lord JESUS of Christmas!

GOOD KING WENCESLAUS

Good King Wenceslas looked out
On the Feast of Stephen
When the snow lay ’round about
Deep and crisp and even
Brightly shone the moon that night
Though the frost was cruel
When a poor man came in sight
Gath’ring winter fuel “Hither, page, and stand by me
If thou know’st it, telling
Yonder peasant, who is he?
Where and what his dwelling?”
“Sire, he lives a good league, hence
Underneath the mountain
Right against the forest fence
By Saint Agnes’ fountain””Bring me mead and bring me wine
Bring me pine logs hither
Thou and I will see him dine
When we bear him thither”
Page and monarch forth they went
Forth they went together
Through the rude wind’s wild lament
And the bitter weather “Sire, the night is darker now
And the wind blows stronger
Fails my heart, I know not how
I can go no longer”
“Mark my footsteps, my good page
Tread thou in them boldly
Thou shalt find the winter’s rage
Freeze thy blood less coldly” In his master’s steps he trod
Where the snow lay dinted
Heat was in the very sod
Which the Saint had printed
Therefore, Christian men, be sure
Wealth or rank possessing
Ye who now will bless the poor
Shall yourselves find blessing

A fun version to enjoy— check out the Carol and look up some of the story. Click below!

https://g.co/kgs/yF4hT3

Where can you spread some love and compassion this season?

Shine on. . .

karan k

“”Then He said to His disciples, ‘The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.’ “ Matthew 9:37 + 38 New King James Bible

What’s your favorite thing about Autumn?

Autumn is probably my favorite time of year. So much activity going on: Campfires, corn mazes, hayrides, trips to the orchard, falling leaves, costume parties, trick and trunk or treat etc. Not to mention the foods! Pumpkin pie, apple pie, pumpkin bread, pumpkin cheesecake, s’mores, hot apple cider, hearty soups and stews. A plethora of good fun and food during harvest here in Pennsylvania.

In addition, I revel in the cool crisp weather with all the contrasting colors of the leaves changing against clear blue skies and puffy white clouds. Falling leaves as I drive through the countryside warm my heart and mesmerize my soul with joy in a cozy way.

Somehow I feel more alive during autumn as the cool breezes energize my body and spirit tempting me to think I can do more than I can handle. Walks in the woods and even in the ‘hood this time of year are a delight for me until yesterday.

As I took a glorious mid-afternoon stroll around the neighborhood I saw this sign in someone’s yard. It struck my heart hard. Nothing against animals but to feel so strongly against human beings made my soul weep.

I realize this may just be a play on the upcoming elections here in the States, but I know without a doubt that there are many who really feel this way about people and not just politicians, and not just in our country.

There are people who have been hurt so bad by other humans that they gave up on trusting them and loving them. There are people in such deep pain all around us and while celebrating the fun side of Harvest, never forget the starving souls out there who need to experience humans the way Jesus created us to be.

ON THE FLIP SIDE: There are always people with needs around us if we open our eyes. We could serve 24 hours a day seven days a week and not meet every need. Even Jesus made a plan to escape the crowds at times. See Matthew 8:18. As Christ followers we need balance.

I know I have to be careful I don’t try to squeeze the life out of everyday with fun activity and serious ministry, so much that I get dried out myself and depleted in the process. I need balance, do you?

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“I feel thin, sort of stretched, like butter scraped over too much bread.’ Bilbo Baggins says to his friend and mentor, Gandalf in J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic, Lord Of the Rings or LOTR.

This is the best way I know how to describe the state of my heart lately. I know I need the Lord of the Harvest to help me find my own balance as well as pray He supplies more people to serve the lonely, hurting souls in our world.

I say all this because just as this time of year is fun with activity, it is also full of opportunity to minister to friends, family and the community at large. It should and can be such an exciting time to serve and invite others into our lives. And this GOOD busyness only increases as we head toward Christmas.

Jesus wants us to enjoy life and serve Him and others with gladness. To accomplish this, however, we need time to rest and relax with Him to FLURISH in all we do. See Romans 12:2 and John 10:10b.

I can safely say I relish my life on a daily basis now in my late 50s much more than I did as a twenty-something. But I must recognize my own limitations and pace myself so I truly absorb the beauty and experience the ecstasy of each day while it’s happening.

It’s taken me most of my life to learn this elusive trick. However, when I catch myself slipping back into old ways of anxious busyness I MUST take a step back and ask the Lord of the Harvest to renew and reset my mind as soon as possible. Otherwise I spiral into burnout, despair and depression because I alone cannot carry the weight of the needs around me. I can’t even enjoy the delights of Autumn without Him. I depend on His help. And so must you. John 15:5 is one of my favorite truths.

If you want to be effective in your service for the Lord of the Harvest and enjoy every moment doing it, take time to pace yourself. Set up a time management schedule that includes time with the Lord daily, some time for rest, some time to reach out serving others and some time for play. Otherwise, you will burn out and be a monster rather than a blessing to others like poor Bilbo below.

Spend time in prayer specifically for the Lord to raise up other committed believers to share the serving responsibilities with you and around the world. Have a Heart for Harvest!

Remember the old slogan And song, EACH ONE, REACH ONE? Click on the video below:

https://g.co/kgs/YkqLUS

Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. JESUS. Matthew 11:28-30 The Message Bible

Shine on into Autumn and beyond. . .

karan k

I, the God of Israel, will never abandon them. I will open up rivers for them on high plateaus. I will give them fountains of water in the valleys. I will fill the desert with pools of water.

Isaiah 41:17b-18a New Living Translation Bible

Ever notice how water seems to be a positive thing in scripture? It’s invigorating, life giving and in the verses above it’s a blessing bestowed on Israel when they needed it most. Sometimes we need some special refreshment from the Lord as well. Is your soul feeling dry like a desert these days? Read on:

As the season transitions here on the East coast from summer to Fall, I am enjoying some stray warmth on my deck. According to the calendar it’s officially Autumn but the sun’s rays today are hot at 78 degrees fahrenheit and it feels summery. I love these warm days at the end of September because I know we are too far into the year for it to get really hot and the nights are usually cool.

But since it’s warm, my mind is drifting to swimming. Any water babies out there? People who could live in the water? I am not one because I can’t swim very well but I do love to be in a pool. There’s something relaxing and surreal about floating weightlessly in a pool where the water is clean and safe. No sharks, no sand, just cool clear water.

Pools have always been a special place for me to praise God and delight in His presence. I sing to Him and swim knowing He’s right there with me. Being alone with Him to worship in a pool is one of the most meaningful as well as delightful activities in my life. Such freedom and acceptance spiritually AND physically in His presence while in a pool.

In fact, I love pools so much that I hope someday to live in a place that has its own outside pool where I can swim daily year round. Of course that would require a major shift in residential location. It would definitely have to be a God thing so I am letting my dream rest in His faithful hands. If HE wants it for me, HE will provide. Plus my husband is itching to move to warmer climates, just sayin. MJT (Must Just Trust)

While on our road trip recently, we stayed at a Country Inn which had an indoor pool. Normally I only book places that have pools but since Covid-19 hit most places closed their pools until further notice. I expected this place to follow suit.

After checking in, the manager gave a run down of the amenities they offered including a fully functional pool and two hot tubs. The operating hours were 6am to midnight.

The wheels of my mind immediately began turning in eagerness, calculating when I could get some pool time. My husband rarely gets in a pool but he usually accompanies me when I want to swim which I truly appreciate. I figured he may not mind going after a nice dinner and if he did mind, he would do it any way being the servant husband that he is. I am so blessed.

After dinner, boisterous boys and girls flooded the pool area while parents schmoozed in clusters at nearby tables talking and guzzling adult beverages. Dwight shot his familiar ‘I’m not into this, I’m an introvert, face at me but I wanted to swim so ignored him and pointed to a vacant table where he reluctantly sat down. I got us two towels and tried to enjoy the chaos.

Dwight blocked out the crowds and settled into his chair by reading one of his many books on WW II, historical biographies or politics. I can’t keep track.🤪But it wasn’t even a minute before I realized a giant temptation drawing me to the pool in the form of a water slide.

Dwight, however, looked mortified at the suggestion of me going on this slide in front of all these people when only kids were using it. But a voice in my heart said GO. And so I did; with Dwight at the ready, knowing I expected him to capture it on film. I told him to stay seated at the table While snapping pics so he wouldn’t feel quite so conspicuous.

I climbed the stairs to the slide behind eight and ten year olds but none of them said a word to me. My smiling face threw them off. I sat down at the top and waited extra long for the little girl in front of me to safely swim to the side. I had to set a good example.😬

Then with a whoosh I started flying down and around the smooth curves of the slide. Laughter burst passed my lips, I simply couldn’t help myself. Fortunately, I remembered to hold my nose before I hit the pool to avoid the water rush to my brain. The whole thing was ninety seconds of awesomeness!

When I returned to our table, Dwight chuckled a bit and leaned over saying a little boy about four at the next table said to his Mom, “Did you see that?!? That Grandma went down the slide!” I burst out laughing again as I headed back for another ride on the slide.

The next morning I was up and down at the pool by 6:30am and the pool area was empty. I could hear the small voice again, LETS GO! Twelve times in a row Jesus and I went on the slide together, each time laughing harder than the last! We had so much fun together. I felt free to play and fully refreshed in spirit.

I spent some time with Him in His Word while I dried off and enjoyed His peace and presence filling my soul with divine contentment. It turned out to be a glorious morning! I believe we all need such special times as often as we can experience them. When He calls you to come out to play in whatever form that takes, answer Him quickly and enjoy Him fully.

Don’t allow the cares and concerns of this life or stubborn pride to rob you from an encounter with Jesus in freedom and fun that you’ll never forget!

But for you who fear my Name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture.

Malachi 4:2 New Living Translation Bible

Shine on. . .

karan k

And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. Acts 17:11 New Living Translation

Have you ever learned lessons from an inanimate object? I have, but I’m not sure what that means except to bolster my belief that there are lessons all around us every day. Here’s my attempt to share two of them with you.

Lesson #1 Use Things Properly in Their Context

Above you see one of my favorite possessions, a giant mirror. When we first purchased it almost 11 years ago I wanted to use it to hang in a huge feature space above our landing. Our handy man tried to do what I asked but ultimately it did not work. I insisted he try a different approach. He was not happy. My own ignorance propelled me forward in this mulish endeavor until my handy man flat out set me straight.

He told me, “This mirror is not meant to be hung. It’s too heavy. It’s a Leaner Mirror to LEAN against a wall.”

Feeling foolish, I realized I had been determined to use the mirror in a way for which it had not been built. What was obvious to the handyman from the start had to be driven home by bluntness for me to get the point.

Ever do that? Ever try to force something that isn’t meant to be out of your own inexperience? Like a child pushing a square peg in a round hole, it just doesn’t work.

Somewhere in the back of your mind you know you are flying blind in ignorance and should not expect good results. The same bad results can happen when not using scripture verses as they were intended. Are you using them out of context? I’m sure all of us have done it but I wanna encourage you to do better. To learn to be a scholar of the Word. To use the Word in context brings the best understanding.

Lesson #2 The Full Picture is Best

How many of you have a full length mirror in your home? Of those who said YES, do you use it? I ask this question because I love my full length LEANER MIRROR (and now having it in a leaning position I can actually use it, I might add, rather than hanging high on a wall for decoration only). It helps me to look my best whenever I go out into our wide world.

This mirror lets me see the good and the not so good. But only if I use it and use it fully. For instance, ever see a person out and about with ill fitting pants sagging so bad that from a rear view it resembles wrinkles like an elephant’s behind rather than a smooth human behind? No matter what their shape or size, I doubt this is the look they were aiming to achieve.

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The people in the above photos probably didn’t look at themselves in the mirror to get a rear view before leaving the house. It’s such a simple fix to check before you head outside your home. You simply need to see the whole picture of yourself, so everything matches up right—-front, back, side etc. Check out your whole self.

It can be that way when we read the Bible too. We read something and we think it sounds so good on the front side—Like Psalm 37:4 for example, “Take delight in the Lord and He’ll give you your heart’s desires.” Oh really? What if my heart desires a new car? This is a verse often taken out of context whether it’s a new car or desiring a spouse.

We will only receive the things God desires for us when we enjoy Him completely because then He will plant His desires in our hearts. We have to look at the surrounding verses about devotion to God to understand this verse. We always have to consider the back story for context. We need to be familiar with the Big Biblical picture. We have to look at the individual book of the Bible we are reading and how it fits into the Bible as a whole.

If your time is crunched, at least look at the verses before and after the passage you are reading. Look at the front AND the back to get a better view. If you have the time check out the side views as well, like who is the author and who were they addressing. Gives you a fuller view of the message and helps prevent misinterpretation.

CHALLENGE: Encourage yourself to learn a bit of scriptural hermeneutics; the branch of knowledge that deals with interpretation of the Bible. It will help you grow and FLURISH because when you know how to interpret the truth properly only then can you apply it to your everyday life in a way that makes you thrive. I need to do more of this too so let’s learn and FLURISH together!

For any ladies interested in learning more about hands on hermeneutics and Bible study check out Bible Context 101 on the site below. Simply click on live web address and search their menu.

http://www.rockthis.org

For guys, try Study 14 after clicking on this live site below:

http://www.disciplingmen.org

Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive His approval. Be a good worker, one who has no need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the Word of Truth. II Timothy 2:15 New Living Translation Bible

Let me know what you are discovering and if these sites were helpful. Until next time, keep learning about and leaning on JESUS!

Shine on. . .

karan k

Some of you may be wondering what the heck is a ‘shibboleth’? So we will let Oxford enlighten us:

A custom, principle, or belief distinguishing a particular class or group of people, especially a long-standing one regarded as outmoded or no longer important.

It’s origins are from Hebrew mid 17th century which I feel is appropriate for my personal shibboleth.

Years ago I worked with a young girl who loved art. We talked about our faith and how it affected our lives. I asked her to draw out the words Must Just Trust because I felt this phrase best summarized my life’s statement. I never wanted to forget the source of my hope. She eagerly took the commission and here you see the result.

By the grace of God I have succeeded in passing on this phrase to some of my close friends. MJT is representative of a fading belief system for those who call themselves Christians. The principle of depending on Christ for all of life’s details seems no longer popular but it needs to spread like wildfire again in those whose hearts burn for Christ.

I wait quietly before God, For my victory comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken.

Psalm 62:1 & 2 New Living Translation Bible

What is the state of your heart as we enter the autumn season with uncertainties looming for the future? The global pandemic continues with an unknown end. National economies are struggling to survive while many have lost loved ones directly or indirectly from the virus. People seem divided more than united on every front. Chaos is becoming our new normal. Have you examined your heart on these matters recently?

Lately wherever I turn seem to be messages of fear, division and violence banging at the door of my heart. What is happening here? Should I expect these awful things as our world has turned its back on God? Is HE shaking things loose like he speaks of in Hebrews 12:25-28? My questioning heart searched for answers. This was my mindset as we approached the date to leave on a three week road trip.

I felt anxious and fearful that perhaps our world as we know it was headed into a time of unprecedented trial to be forever changed. I wondered if this would be the last chance to see precious family members who live far away?

Driving down the road one day the Lords Word echoed in my memory.

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

II Timothy 1:7 New Living Translation Bible

AND

For God is not a God of disorder but of peace, as in all the meetings of God’s holy people.

I Corinthians 14:33 New Living Translation Bible

Renewed hope and strength surged through my mind and spirit as I believed the Word of God. You are not the God of fear but of love and not the& God of confusion. You will help me face whatever is ahead because I am Yours and You love me. I know You are faithful to take care of Your own.

So just before we left I prayed and asked God to show us what HE wanted us to see and experience on this road trip. I decided it was better to let all the details of the trip remain flexible in His almighty hands. With that decision came peace and assurance that all would be well.

I employed the shibboleth. . . MJT—-Must Just Trust referring to placing all our concerns at the feet of Jesus and totally counting on Him to take good care of each and every one. Feel free to share the shibboleth MJT! Use it! Live it!

The road trip had a few detours, delays but no devastations. From start to finish it was a fantastic adventure in faith and fun! And even though we were not able to see any family due to complications with Covid restrictions, we saw God’s amazing creativity and experienced His love in deep bonding daily as husband and wife like we’ve never experienced before. Simply incredible trip of my lifetime thus far.

So as we contemplate the future on the eve of 9/11, (if you think you don’t need a deeper dependence on God, remember how quickly things changed that morning, nineteen years ago), consider the God who brought us through all horrors of that tragedy.

Fellow Christians, wherever you are and whatever you and I face in the coming months, let’s trade in the false mantras of the world for the Shibboleth of dependence on Christ alone—-MJT.

Shine on. . .

karan k

The last leg of our journey through the alps of Switzerland took us east to Pontresina. This Italian influenced town sat high upon an Alpine ridge. The weather was a bit cooler and we had some rainy days as well.

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The Hotel Rosatsch was a delicious place to unwind after a long travel stint. It held some lovely surprises which more than made up for a few rainy days. The breakfast buffet topped all the ones prior which were none too shabby themselves.

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There was a soothing spa where I booked myself for a full body massage, 90 min of luxuriating bliss. Also a beautiful pool area and sauna complete with unisex showers. Almost saw more of certain travel mates than I bargained for…😲.

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Today we took the Bernina Express train to Tirano, Italy stopping in Poschiavo. The normally active piazza of this lovely little town was unusually quiet giving us an eery feeling. Sights were inviting but I could not get this uneasiness out of my mind and spirit.

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Could this be the reason for my soul’s unrest? Beside the giant cathedral was another ossuary, this one visibly filled to overflowing with skulls and bones. It’s rather horrifying to see and you have to look really close when facing it in person.

I know a lot of people were condemned as witches in this area during the 17th century. Local history is suspiciously tight lipped about the whole thing but I’ll tell you I felt evil there among the serene surroundings. It was the only place on the entire tour that I was glad to leave.

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Upon returning to our safe and cozy town of Pontresina, we tried some scrumptious and unusual pastries. The Golden ball had a smooth marshmallow center. The green piece was a candy shell of key lime with a fudgy melt in your mouth chocolate center.

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We decided to ride the local lift to awesome heights overlooking Pontresina and the entire valley. Very refreshing to just sit and take it all in. Wish I had known about this lift earlier to spend more reflective time there which is so good for the soul.

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Now on to Zurich by rail from St. Moritz. By this time my overloaded senses just wanted to kick back and rest. So I did. Zurich loomed with busyness and we found our first and only StarBucks there! DWIGHT got his vanilla latte’ fix.😛

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It’s been an absolute pleasure sharing all our wonderful memories with you. Thanks for reading and journeying with us. Good-bye sensational Switzerland! Please include any comments on this series in the designated spot and join us next time on FLURISH!

Shine on. . .

karan k

“The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” Psalm 121:7-8 New Living Translation Bible

Two days to explore Zermatt and the Matterhorn challenged us beyond belief. So much to see here in this pedestrian only town of 5800. Everyone arrives by train and tiny trucks transport travelers luggage to all the hotels. Hard to explain the feel because it’s too big to be a quaint village, but not big enough to be a city although the shops are more modern and upscale giving it an urban vibe. We truly enjoyed our time here.

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So many intriguing sights in this town. . .

A wedding party began to congregate on the steps of the Cathedral just outside the old part of town when we passed by on our way to the museum. The three man mariachi band serenaded us as we took a breather on the church steps. I’m tellin ya, when the lead smiled he looked so much like Tom Cruise it gave me goose bumps!🤣

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We entered the unusual looking Matterhorn Museum or Zermatlantis, an underground world displaying the history of Zermatt and the adventurers who challenged the Matterhorn. The entrance is a dome-like structure situated next to the cathedral. It is well worth your time to check it out if you are in town. If not, here’s a sample of what you would see and a few other sights around Zermattk

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Today we began an 8 hour train ride on the Glacier Express. This was one part of the trip I sorta dreaded. We crossed 291 bridges and slid through 91 tunnels on our way from Zermatt to St. Moritz in the southeastern part of Switzerland. This is the wild country filled with forests, snow capped mountains and shimmering lakes.

As it turned out we met some kool people from Austria and enjoyed good conversation with them and some of our travel mates. Being served a full meal happened to be another highlight for me. The scenic views were spectacular and the eight hours flew by quickly.

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The train dropped us off at St. Moritz and then we continued on by bus to Pontresina, an Italian inspired village. More about that next time. Here are some highlights from St. Moritz

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Shine on. . .

karan k

“The LORD’s unfailing love and mercy still continue, fresh as the morning, as sure as the sunrise.” Lamentations 3:22 & 23 Good News Translation Bible

This morning we awoke with excitement as the golden head of the Matterhorn shone brightly through our bedroom draperies. We rushed out to the terrace to get these unique shots.

Later we took the cog railway to Gornergrat while it was still early to beat the crowds. Tons of photo opportunities here on this level, a 3000 plus meter climb.

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Included in the above set of photos is a shot of “run off rails”. These rails are embedded into the ground all over the Alps to efficiently and safely dissipate the glacier run off. The system is simple yet effective.

Also included in this gallery is the Chapel. I felt inspired to praise God by lighting a candle in this Chapel in thanksgiving to Him for this unbelievable trip.

There’s a small museum on this level which displays artifacts and photographs from climbing expeditions of the Matterhorn. The first such successful ascent took place in 1865. More recently, Base Jumpers who conquered the Matterhorn, were also added.

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Took Gornergrat Bahn back down 100 meters to Riffelsee Lake to get coveted reflecting shots before the sun moved out of scope. The small window of opportunity dissolves swiftly each day so we left in a hurry to reach the lake in time. We made it and got these glorious shots!

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Another day of gorgeousness beyond description comes to a close. Look for the beauty in your world today.

Shine on. . .

karan k

Today we are enroute to our next lodging in Zermatt, home of the Matterhorn. After my new favorite breakfast of Greek yogurt, raspberry sauce and granola, we walk to the train station and take a last look at this beautiful town. My only regret being that I didn’t take a bike ride here in Kandersteg. Maybe another time?

Checking out some local pastries at the train station for our ride to Fiesch and catch the cable car to visit the giant Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the entire Alps.

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Here in Fiesch we took a ride on the Cable car to Fiescheralp and then changed to the Eggishorn lift to view the Jungfrau-Aletsch protected area, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Up, up and up!.

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On the glacier itself a tiny rustic cabin was built housing a cafe. Surrounding it were outdoor picnic tables and these special stalls complete with blankets and a high price tag to enjoy your meal while viewing the glaciers.

We opted for inside seating which was extremely limited but oh so delightfulquaint. Beef stew not only was delicious but hearty for the cold temps. The apple strudel was about 4 inches high and scrumptious along with a cup of coffee.

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After our filling lunch we went out exploring. The air was very thin with less oxygen and Dwight had trouble breathing. So much so that we missed the gondola ride back and had to wait for the next one. Grateful he didn’t get full blown altitude sickness or pass out! 2927 meters high above the riverside town of Fiesch on the Eggishorn was not the mountain we wanted to die on, not today anyway.

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When I got DWIGHT back to the gondola and we began to descend, we spied figures walking across the mountain? Someone had pegged cables into the rock wall and they were moving across like a tightrope walker! Amazing!

On to Zermatt. . .

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This restaurant, the Wahlserkanne, had it all: smooth modern-Alpine ambience, incredible wait staff, delectable food. One of our best meals shared with great friends!

Don’t you just love the simple old school ways of Europeans peein?🤣

Goodnight from Zermatt. Catch you next time as we check out the Matterhorn up close and personal. . .

Shine on. . .

karan k