The Hatibang hike came and went exactly as advertised. Most of a days worth of extreme hiking that can humble even the most athletic of travelers. For some of us (certainly myself, anyways) it was the most physically demanding thing we have ever done in our lives. No amount of warning can prepare one for the grueling ascents and precarious descents that riddle the over-hill trek to the small village of Hatibang. By the grace of God and a great deal of patience and skill on the part of our guide, Rajan, we have all arrived in Pokhara safely.
It is a little startling how many rural Nepalese folk we crossed on the paths and steppes. We were each carrying perhaps 15-20 drawstring bags for the children, some water and perhaps a few granola bars. You can imagine, then, how silly it felt when we would pass a local taking the same paths as us with a forty pound bag of rice strapped to his head, wearing flip flops, and struggling considerably less than we were.
Physical strength certainly appears to be a necessity of life for these mountainous people, proving far more useful than the latest hydration pack or most expensive hiking shoes. What a blessing and a privilege it is then for us helpers to bring to many of these people a Strength that surpasses even their own physical endurance!
The strength and power of God's holy Word, that blessed gospel of Jesus Christ and Him crucified, has been strengthening and rejuvenating the weary hearts and aching minds of believers since the fall into sin. And it will continue to do so until all those who confess Jesus as Lord are called to eternal paradise with Him.
How great an opportunity we have been given to share the ultimate, spiritual Strength found only in the blood of the Lamb with these people. So whether we walk, climb or drive, we persevere in the grace of God, confident that He is the One who plans our steps and brings our labor to fruition.
In Christ,
Drew Naumann
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