Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve
10/14/13
Distance: 3 Mile Loop
Terrain: Rolling hills with steeper climbs near the bluffs
Vegetation: Wildflowers, forest, meadows, stunning views of Lake Michigan
Wildlife: Bird habitat
In the Midst of the Storm
by Sarah Anderson
"Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, 'I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.'" - John 8:12
This trail is two miles south of Elberta and is protected by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. Its open year-round for hikers and cross-country skiers. We hiked mid-October during the peak of Autumn's blush. Pale sunlight warmed our skin while crisp air rolled in from the shore below. Cornflower blue blankets covered the earth to it's outer rim. It's waves crashing methodically, keeping time to the woodland song of rustling red and yellow leaves.
The trail offers two overlooks of Lake Michigan, the first including views of Lower Herring Lake. In good weather, Lake Michigan might be clear enough to catch a glimpse of the City of Boston shipwreck. In 1873, the steamship hit a sandbar when blinded by a November snow storm. Unable to move, the waves pounded against the hull until it broke. The ship's cargo was lost and the vessel was abandoned.
From the sandy bluffs we could just outline the City of Boston wreckage, a skeletal memory of what was lost. It served as a warning against the possible devastation for those who lose sight of the Lighthouse. When we're blinded by the storm, whether a fog of worldliness, or the crashing waves of enemy warfare, we're in danger of becoming shipwrecked. We must fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." When we remain in Scripture, marinating our minds with His words, they serve as a compass, keeping us on course when the way seems bleak and hopeless.
The Christian life doesn't guarantee smooth sailing but we can trust that the Captain will not abandon us in the storm. Deuteronomy 31:8 says, "The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your guiding light, Your word that directs my steps. Forgive me for taking it for granted. Like food, I need it daily. Teach me to meditate on it, using it as the measure for all my decisions. Let me not despair in life's storms but rest in the promise that you will remain with me. Teach me to fix my eyes on You and not the waves. Amen.