When I say that I am writing this column from a desert place, please understand that I am literally writing this column from a desert place. Many times we use that phrase metaphorically, but, in this case, I am literally staring out the window at the New Mexico desert as I type these words.
My wife and daughters and I are nearing the end of a 10-day mission trip that included a foray down into Mexico itself as well. Missionary Steven Sykes, whom our church has supported for many years, has started two works in New Mexico and is currently doing a great work in the town of Deming, a city steeped both in great need and great beauty.
Our trip here took us through North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi (where, thank you, Ray Stevens, we could not resist stopping in Pascagoula for a bit), Louisiana, Texas (if you are ever there, find a Buc-ee’s station to stop at; trust me on this one), and then New Mexico.
Mount Calvary Baptist Church, which Brother Sykes founded and is pastoring, is flourishing in this desert; God has abundantly blessed the work.
As a lifelong rockhound, I have been thrilled to go out on some private property here and find arrowheads and shards of pottery, pieces of lovely orange carnelian and many other specimens. We have gotten to see and trek through the City of Rocks, one of the most amazing places I have ever beheld, and we have eaten some of the world-famous Hatch green chili peppers. Blake’s Lotaburger is a must-try when you are here, as is the Si Senor restaurant.