Recently, during a trip out west to Yosemite National Park, we found ourselves on a glorious trail. With each turn, valleys would unfold, majestic mountains would take on new life and the sun would create mosaics of light and shadow with the help of tall pines and the occasional cloud. The hike was 7.5 miles in and the same distance out.

The trailhead was in a small field and then began to wind through some impressive pine trees. The path was very clear and the combination of exposed soil, pine needles and fall leaves eliminated any need to question next steps. We took in the scenery and the miles fell behind us. This hike was going to be one to remember. What a day. What a trail.

One of the unique features of Yosemite is the amount of exposed granite that you can see. As you gain altitude, and perspective, you realize rock is king out here. There are more exposed rock formations than forests or meadows. The rock gives Yosemite beauty and character.

By mid morning, our trail turned up and left. Then, the trail opened to a vast rock face covering at least 900 feet up the mountain to our right, around 300 feet to our left down to a stream bed and easily another 600 feet directly across. We had found a bed of granite that looked like a lava flow. It was spectacular! All of us ventured out onto the rock and stood in wonder. Then, it happened. There was no longer a clear path. For just a moment, our level of certainty was gone. All the exposed rock, although beautiful, looked the same and offered no direction. We knew there was a trail. The question was, where?

In just a few minutes, we found small pillars of rocks stacked one on top of the other. These pillars had as many as seven small stones and seemed to guide us across the rock face. You see, these were trail markers left for us by people who had walked this path before. Recognizing the unsure terrain, they chose to light the way for others. People from the past helped guide present as well as future travelers.

Men of True North, many have come before you on the trail of life. And, many have taken great pains to show you how to stay on a path keeping Christ close by. Look for those signs. Be aware they exist in scripture, in prayer, in the active nature of The Holy Spirit and especially in the unselfish acts of your friends. We are all trying to find our way. Stay connected to our Savior and you will stay on course.

Blessings,

Mike Peck