During our debrief in Antigua, my squad hiked Pacaya, one of Guatemala’s 37 volcanoes. Our hostel owner had a connection with a tour guide who could lead us close to the crater, even though the area was technically closed because of how active Pacaya has been recently. 31 of us piled in the beds of pick-up trucks to drive through miles of countryside blackened by igneous rocks where the lava flowed down in a catastrophic eruption 6 years ago. We hiked up the last half hour to the highest reasonably safe point. 

     At the eerily foggy summit (think of a pirate movie scene where you can hardly see past the bough of the ship), we took pictures, tossed a football, and hung out, waiting to see an eruption. Our guide stopped us at one point and explained that we need to be quiet for safety so we can hear when the eruptions occur. Apparently, we were actually dangerously close to the crater...oops. 

     We sat down in silence and searched the fog expectantly from our vantage point, hoping that the fog would clear out before we had to hike back down. Pacaya was erupting, but we couldn’t see it yet. The steady rumbling of lava flowing down sounded like rock monsters stomping down the mountain. Hearing those sounds through the hazy mist created a mysterious and glorious scene. 

     I prayed specifically that we would get to see the peak clearly for even just 10 seconds. 

     Minutes before our guide wanted us to head down, the clouds cleared out for, and I’m not even exaggerating, only 10-20 seconds. Amidst cheers and gasps, we excitedly watched fiery fingers of lava trace lines down the peak.

     It was I N C R E D I B L E!!! Hands down the most awe-inspiring nature experience of my life. 

     When the clouds rolled back in, we began our descent. Just because He is such a sweet God who loves to bless His kids, the clouds cleared again soon after. Hurried by our guide, we continued hiking downhill, twisting our necks around to see the final glimpses of volcanic splendor. All we could do was watch in complete awe. WOW!

     As my squad-mate, Mary Grace, and I hiked back, we praised God for the rare and glorious display of His creation He allowed us to witness. We talked about how volcanic eruptions are the world turning itself inside out...which, funny enough, is exactly what God has been doing to us lately! Read my last blog, “Get Wrecked” to hear more about that. We're just out here livin' like lava!

Pacaya was a memorable reminder that God is: 

Creative

Able and willing to answer our smallest prayers

Absolutely AWESOME!!!

     Also, fun fact, Pacaya had a major eruption less than 12 hours later. Check it out here. The very spot we were standing was covered in lava. Crraaazzzyyyy!!!