I’m often asked why I return to Yosemite time after time. I think the answer lies partly in the words of Psalm 121:
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from Yahweh, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
Listening to God is something every Christian knows they should do. But it’s hard—especially with all the noise, distractions, and daily demands of life.
As I enter my mid-fifties, I find myself becoming more reflective…
I wonder: What will be the sum of my life?
What will I have truly invested my days in?
I’m thankful that, as a young college student, I read a book that challenged me to create a life ministry manifesto—
To reach and teach as many children as possible with the good news of God’s love, and in the process, to enlist, equip, and encourage others to do the same.
This mission has led me to countless outreaches, guided me to become a children’s pastor, and maybe—just maybe—part of my legacy will be this annual event I created for children’s pastors: Yosemite Summit.
It’s a chance to unplug, to get away, to spend time with the Lord in the grandeur of His creation.
I’m humbled how many men have told me that this retreat has stayed with them long after they left the mountains—Some returned with their wives, some brought their children, and one told me recently that he came back alone when he needed it most.
In some ways, Yosemite Summit has become more than an event. It’s been a quiet teacher, training men to seek God in nature’s majesty. It’s reminded them—and me—that the Creator who carved these mountains also sees each of us, more precious than the sparrows He watches over.
(As Psalm 8 says, “What is man that You are mindful of him?”)
So I guess all this rambling is to say:
I’m thankful for a life lived on purpose—for a mission that led me to create this retreat, not just for myself, but for the fifty-plus men who have joined me over the years.
Because of this event, I’ve learned that getting alone in nature is one of the best ways to hear God’s voice, to feel His presence, and to be redirected in the way He wants me to go.
May I keep coming back to this truth, and may those who walk this path with me find it too.
Selah.
