The River Man

Photos & Story By: Lisa Petrarca

Van Damme State Park-Fern Forrest

It was about 40 degrees and misting as we walked down the path. The lush, moss covered trees and ferns to our left, the grumble of the rushing water to the right. It was the picture perfect moment.

He could not resist the flat stump that stood directly in front of the small waterfall.

Running towards it with the enthusiasm of a 10 year old boy discovering a secret hidden treasure, he shouted, "Hey...take my picture, it'll look like I'm standing in the middle of the river."

I fumbled around in my bag pulling my camera out, popping the lens off and fiddling with the settings.

I looked up, just as he jumped onto the smooth, flat surface of the wood.

The "sturdy" stump, shot straight into the air, as his body splashed into the icy water below.

Frantically his first instinct was to save the phone in his pocket, ripping it out of his jacket, holding it high in the air, while flapping his free hand, trying to paddle his way to the side of the embankment.

I was shocked...I managed to snap a quick, blurry picture as he came out, covering my mouth with my free hand to stifle the laugh that was threatening to escape.

Double Click for Larger View

The stump was actually a two inch floating piece of wood. It deceptively sat above the water inviting unsuspecting adventurers to stand on it!

What is the "stump" in your life? What is deceiving you and tempting you to walk away from the path?

Don't continue to be fooled by the enemy. Stay on the path that Jesus Christ has shown you by His example and sacrifice.

Let the Lord be your guide!

O' Lord
By: Lisa Petrarca

Calm my soul O' Lord
Lift my spirit
Give me the strength and faith to continue in it

Your love knows no bounds O' Lord
Set my feet back on solid ground
Direct my path and turn my life around

Freedom you bring O' Lord
Complete peace of mind
Into your loving arms O' Lord my life I assign

I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites.
Romans 16:17-18

To give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace."
Luke 1:77-79