How Great Thou Art: North Rim Ruminations

It is my favorite church, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, where I spent several days last week.

I still remember the first time I stared into its majestic, mesmerizing depths, listening to the earth breathe, and suddenly, viscerally understood the words “Be still and know that I am God.”

I simply surrendered. As do most of the other 5 million visitors who come to this quieter and even more magnificent side of the Grand Canyon each year.

It is remote. It is rugged. The elevation, at 8200 feet, is even higher than the South Rim. And while there are more canyons and an endless variety of natural wonders on the North side, there is less to “do” there. It is all Canyon, all the time. No “attractions,” save mule rides, little nature talks—nothing to distract you from the breath-stealing scenery and cleansing calm.

There are also rustic but surprisingly comfy and well-kept cabins to return to and contemplate what the Canyon has taught you that day. There’s also a deli, and gift shop and a little saloon that serves the veranda and viewing room, too. And, yes, like the South Rim, it boasts a gourmet quality restaurant where doting staff who will do almost anything to make you happy.

They live in Paradise. And they know it. And like everyone who works there, they share the love with all those millions who come to them still stunned speechless by what they’ve seen outside. They want you to remember what you’ve seen. To keep in in a special place in your heart so that if anyone ever seriously tries to take it away from us, you’ll fight them tooth and nail.

Pope Francis just proposed that “the works of mercy also include care for our common home,” the Earth. The North Rim is a spectacular reminder of what we stand to lose if we are not mindful.

For me, it is sacred ground. Each visit gives me at least one gift: a memorable person, moment, insight or vision that I could not have received anywhere else.

This year, it was a dream of Jesus not meant to be shared save to say that I woke up the next morning humming an old hymn I had heard incessantly in the home of one of my most devoutly religious aunts but had not thought of for decades.

I could feel Him walking and sitting and smiling beside me through the rest of my visit, as happy to be there as I was. He was a delightful travel companion, who taught me to see God even more clearly in that canyon.

In His honor, I offer you that hymn and a few photos from “our” vacation. Enjoy the “view.”

Amen.

Photo credit: Author and friend Beth Resille
Audio credit: Yolanda Adams performs “How Great Thou Art” at the White House Celebration of Music from the Civil Rights Movement in 2010. Public Domain.