“The mountain tops belong to him.” -Psalm 95:4
As most of you have heard by now, it’s been a tough week for Americans. President Trump was shot in the ear at his rally on July 13th in Pennsylvania. It was a complete miracle that his life was spared. Our country was in shock as we watched the video of this attempt on his life. When the details became more clear, many were relieved as well as grieved. As a whole, we are thankful that President Trump is alive, but on the other hand we are grieved for the man who lost his life and for the others who were injured. It was a scary moment and for many of us, nothing like this has ever happened in our lifetime. Of course, people are also showing their true colors and some would rather be divisive than loving. As believers, we ought to respond to events like this with compassion instead of cursing others… and that goes for people on both sides of political issues. One beautiful thing that has emerged this week is unified prayer across the body of Christ. Americans all over the U.S. have gathered to pray for the victims and our country. Even Christians from other countries have covered us in prayer as well… and we are so thankful for this. As we find our way forward from this sad event, let’s choose to love one another, show grace and truly be unified.
Now, let’s continue to celebrate the great United States of America. Here are some insights and highlights from the next two amazing states below: Colorado and Nebraska.
Colorado: is “where dreams come true.” This phrase from scripture came to mind as well: “The mountain tops belong to him” (Psalm 95:4). Then I was reminded of Habakkuk 3:19: “You make my feet like the feet of a deer, you enable me to tread on the heights.” The Rocky Mountains run through Colorado, making it a dramatically beautiful state to explore. Two of our good friends live in the Denver area, so we booked it down there for the weekend to celebrate our friend Lydia’s birthday. We go way back with Curt and Lydia. They were our Alpha Course leaders back in college and we learned so much from them. Most importantly, we have so much fun with them and laugh nonstop when we’re together. In fact, Lydia sat down with me for an interview on The Overcomers podcast while we were there. Go watch Episode 13: Depression to Grace to hear her amazing testimony (https://rumble.com/v3q6vqs-episode-13-depression-to-grace.html). Curt and Lydia took us to so many fun and beautiful places in the mountains. Garden of the Gods was a really interesting place to explore with all kinds of rugged red-orange rock formations. There was actually a tornado in Colorado Springs just after we left that area and I believe it was a sign that God is stirring things up over that area. Our time in Colorado was so enjoyable (especially the Firecracker Pizza with honey and Lydia’s ceviche), but what made it so special was getting to spend quality time catching up with our amazing friends and encouraging one another.
Nebraska: is “never a dull moment.” While we were driving through the western side of the state, I was reminded of these lyrics in the song “Praise You in This Storm” by Casting Crowns: “I lift my eyes unto the hills, Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, The maker of Heaven and Earth” (Psalm 121:1-2). This side of Nebraska surprised us with its beauty. We visited Scotts Bluff and Chimney Rock, which are landmarks on the Oregon Trail. Since I grew up in Oregon, I loved this part of our history and was always fascinated with the trail. When I was in elementary school, I remember playing The Oregon Trail computer game (hilarious, I know). I was so excited to see these places I learned about and they were even more dramatic than I imagined! However, the most beautiful surprise for us in Nebraska was The Old Market in downtown Omaha. We were blown away by how charming this part of the city is. There are cobblestone streets, strings of lights, tall brick buildings, rooftop flower boxes and horse-drawn carriages. It instantly became one of our most favorite cities in America. If you are ever in Omaha, The Old Market is a must see!
Thank you for following along and soaking in the beauty of America with me. I look forward to sharing more with you next week!
The Overcomers 
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