For the last three days, my son Andrew and I returned to one of our favorite summertime pastimes: our annual father – son backpacking trip. In years past, of course, Adam was also along with us, but now that he is married, a father, and a full-time missionary, his schedule does not allow for him to join us. He was certainly missed, but Andrew and I had a great time bonding in the backcountry.

This year we headed north of Mt. Rainier into the Snoqualmie / Mt. Baker wilderness for three days and two nights up above Greenwater Lakes. The weather was warm, which was great for Andrew and me since we both like the heat. But what we didn’t know is that within the past couple years, a massive forest fire decimated much of the gorgeous forest for most of the area where we hiked. Initially the climb to Greenwater Lakes was forested and beautiful, running along the river, a well maintained trail. By the time we got to Echo Lake, seven miles in and the site of our camp, we were staring at mile after mile of burned trees.

The lake was warm (by mountain standards), perfect for a refreshing swim. And we found a great campsite near the lake. Sleeping out under the stars that first night was perfect except for the spotlight moon that shone brightly in our faces most of the night. Unfortunately the brightness of the moon hid most of the stars from our view.

The next day, we headed through the burned out forest up hot and dry hills back to Corral Pass, five miles further up the trail. This was a strange spot with a huge corral, no animals, but a road that went up to the corral. From here, it was another 1.5 miles to the view that made the trip worth it, a gorgeous view of Mt. Rainier beyond the range to the west. A nice refreshing breeze helped immensely with the heat and bugs, and we had a great lunch. We actually had cell service from this spot so I was able to give Holly a quick check in call. Then it was back down to our Echo lake for another refreshing swim, dinner, and this time sleeping in the tent. Then an early packup and we headed back down to the car – 27 miles round trip.

Admittedly, although I love the outdoors, the best part of doing these trips is the company. Andrew and I had great talks as the miles ratcheted away, although the words were more sparse during particularly hot and dusty sections. We covered the gamut of subjects, and I believe those trips help to keep us connected with each other throughout the year. Not only did we spend time talking, but we also played cards, read our Bibles, planned for upcoming events, and created more memories. I’m grateful for the opportunity to spend in this unique setting with my son.

Because I’m a preacher and trainer of preachers, I’m always on the lookout for sermon illustrations. The contrast of the thick green forest with the post- forest fire desolation brought some thoughts to mind. As we keep alive in the Spirit, refreshed with the life-giving Word of God and “Living Water,” the “forest” of our spiritual life remains vibrant. But when the fires of sin wreak their devastation on that forest, the result is catastrophic. Destruction as far as the eye can see. Death, dryness, and loss are consuming. However, we serve a God of grace, and even in the midst of the destruction, there were small signs of hope: a small stream winding through the burned forest, seedling trees and bushes pushing their way through the ash and debris indicating that new life is coming, although it may take many years. We even saw a large buck with a full set of antlers at one point rummaging through the charred remains of forest. Many consider Ezekiel 28 a section of Scripture not only describing the prince and king of Tyre, but also and more pointedly the “prince of darkness,” Satan. In verse 18 we read, “By the multitude of your iniquities, in the unrighteousness of your trade you profaned your sanctuaries; so I brought fire out from your midst; it consumed you, and I turned you to ashes on the earth in the sight of all who saw you.” The reminder for us is the beware the devastation sin will bring, not only upon your life but all who are near you. Drench the flames of temptation with the water of repentence and God’s grace before the fires consume you and you are unable to flee. God’s warning to Cain come to mind in Genesis 4:7, “And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, and you must rule over it.” May we heed the warning of that forest fire and the message behind it. And may we praise God for His grace through Christ that offers forgiveness and life out of the ashes.