Day Ten

April 10

After an early morning start out of Geneva, we arrived in Lyon right before noon. Such an amazing city! We got our rental car from the train station and set off through Lyon on our way to Avignon, 200km south.

The scenery was stunning along both sides of the A7 motorway. Orchards, vineyards, fields… if I could have stopped every time I saw something different and interesting, we never would have arrived!

Just as we turned off the motorway onto a more rural road, we saw a roadside stand selling freshly picked strawberries! I think that is at least 7-8 weeks ahead of when we start picking at home!

We went from windy winter gear yesterday - straight into T-shirts and sandals mid-afternoon.

We arrived in Avignon in good spirits a bit overwhelmed, though, by the size of the city and its surrounding walls.

In 1309, the papacy was transferred to France and for 68 years, Avignon became the religious and political center of Christendom. The striking and imposing Papal Palace was built in just twenty years, beginning in 1335.

The streets are bustling with lively crowds celebrating the last of the Easter holidays.

All of it was just a bit too much “bustle” after our day spent yesterday deep in the solitude of the Alpine mountains…

And now, a fresh layer of solemness covers some of our memories from yesterday.

Just as my aunt and I were returning from our 12,000’ climb to Augille du Midi, I heard a long and loud boom. I turned and shook my head saying, “Wow! That wasn’t what I think it was, right?”

Sadly, it was. We awoke to the news of a fatal avalanche that took place less than a mile down from where we blissfully were enjoying our day. Six skiers perished, two of whom were trained guides.

There is a brutal side to this rugged beauty that surrounds us. And often, there is a wild, treacherous, and unforgiving price exacted by this untamed land.

We are reminded of those who have marked this land with their blood, sweat, and tears… that we might find passage into its beautiful depths.

We remember and give thanks…

We remember that 2,000 years ago the Son of Man walked the lonely hill of Calvary to pay the ultimate cost that we might find passage into the beautiful depths of our salvation.

We remember and give thanks…

For all things
In all things
Through all things

We remember…
And give thanks