To the Rock Let Me Fly

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, the need for a family getaway was long overdue. In September, we escaped to Devon for a family holiday. Leon started a demanding job a couple of weeks earlier, and we all needed to unwind. The pressures of his new role had been building, and a short escape to the landscapes of Devon was the perfect prescription for rejuvenation.

Our family recently recognised our value of the outdoors and decided to visit Dartmoor in Devon. Inspired by our latest family read-aloud, we planned our walk to Hound Tor, a place made famous by none other than the iconic detective, Sherlock Holmes. Our hike led us through heathlands, gorgeous vales, and towering rocky tors.

As we began our journey, we made frequent stops, allowing our children to clamber over the rocky terrain. We met each opportunity with excitement as they fearlessly scaled the heights and descended with equal excitement. Even our youngest, with fearless determination, scrambled as high as she could. Our walk was a perfect blend of thrilling scrambles and leisurely strolls, leaving all of us tired but happy by the end of the day. The peaceful night’s sleep that followed told of the day’s adventures.

One thing our family now does is sing songs while we walk. Our hymns and folk songs help make the long, boring bits a little more interesting and the challenging parts more bearable. We sang this hymn called The Rock that is Higher Than I on that day, and it was perfect for our adventures.

These outdoor adventures always paint a vivid picture of our unchanging relationship with the Lord. Life’s journey can often be dark and tempestuous, filled with moments of sorrow, but we have peace because we can cling to the Rock, finding refuge and strength. When life leaves us weary, the shadow of the Rock provides the sweet rest we desperately seek. Whether in times of blessing or sorrow, our faith keeps us anchored near the Rock.

In Devon, among the heaths and tors of Dartmoor, we found not only a rest from our routine but also fellowship with each other and the Lord. The beauty of the moors served as a reminder that in the midst of life’s trials and tribulations, we can always find peace in the presence of the eternal Rock.