“The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭35:1-2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Today we travelled by bus to the Jacobite steam train, which was used as the Hogwart’s Express in the Harry Potter films, then we took a ferry to the Isle of Skye, where we explored the little town of Portree, and then went for a phenomenal dinner at the Red Skye restaurant.

I feel a little bit like I’m pounding the same note over and over – but I am constantly blown away by the rugged beauty of this land.

Everything is so green and lush. Every time we then a corner there is another little water fall, or a mountain top shrouded in the heavy clouds which feed the falls. Some of our group spotted a stag in the fields as we travelled today. And then, as we drive back to our hotel there was an entire stretch of the highway during which we were calling out, “deer! There’s another one! And another! Look, a whole flock!”

As we traveled back to our hotel, there were many who were saying that they are in love with the Isle of Skye, that they hope to return and explore it further.

I feel the same way. Our time here has been absolutely magical and has definitely whetted my appetite to see more of this beautiful place.

The hills, the sky, the water falls, the lochs and the green fields are declaring their makers’ praise all around us each moment. It’s all “calling out your name,” Lord, and I just want to join in. What a blessing!