Snow-capped Mountains, Rockslides, Oracles, and Bus Repairs: Rejoicing from Kalambaka to Delphi
Day three of our Missionary Journeys of Paul tour reminded us that travel is rarely predictable. but often unforgettable. From snow-capped mountains to ancient ruins and a few unexpected delays, the journey from Kalambaka to Delphi gave us stories we will be telling for years to come.
Today, the journey itself was the lesson.
A Crisp Mountain Morning
When we arose this morning, the air was cooler, and the mountains just beyond our hotel were beautifully capped with snow, a breathtaking reminder of the majesty of creation.
Before boarding the bus, we enjoyed another hearty breakfast, this time sharing the dining area with a lively group of high school students from Sweden and Italy, all on their own spring adventures.
Prayer, Perspective, and the Road Ahead
As we made our way toward Mount Parnassus, Bill Shiell led
us in a meaningful time of prayer, inviting travelers to voice concerns for
loved ones back home. It was a sacred moment with names spoken and needs
shared.
Following that, I shared a devotional from Epistle to the
Philippians 4:4, reflecting on what Paul meant when he said: “Rejoice in the
Lord always.”
We considered that rejoicing may not mean summoning instant
happiness, but rather:
- Recovering
our source of joy.
- Recalibrating
our perspective on joy.
- Rewinding
and remembering the joys of the past.
- Choosing
a posture of joy, even when the emotions of joy lag behind.
It was a timely word, especially since what came next was
not an emotion of joy.
An Unexpected Travel Delay
About an hour into our journey, just as we neared the
mountain peak, traffic came to a complete standstill. Word soon reached us that
a rockslide had occurred in a construction zone ahead of us about an hour
prior.
Authorities informed us that a controlled blast would be
necessary to clear the debris. For about 40 minutes, we waited as patiently as
possible, grateful, in hindsight, that we had not passed that way earlier.
Travel has a way of humbling us, reminding us that we are
not in control.
As Paulo Coelho surmised, “If you think adventure is
dangerous, try routine; it is lethal.”
After Emily completed her excellent introduction to Delphi,
Bill Shiell lightened the mood with a lively round of bus bingo, a fun time
with laughter echoing through the aisle as we proceeded on our journey.
Among the Ruins of Delphi
When we finally arrived at Delphi, we moved quickly to make
the most of our time. We began at the Delphi Archaeological Museum and then
proceeded to the ancient archeological site, which is a UNESCO World Heritage
location.
(overlooking the historic site)
The grounds were bustling with student groups from Greece and Italy, but our travelers pressed on with determination, climbing higher to reach the sanctuary and the ancient theater.
Standing there, one can almost hear the echoes of history.
Delphi was once considered the center of the ancient world, a place where
people came seeking guidance from the oracle.
The ancient maxim associated with Delphi still speaks: “Know
thyself.”
(Kelly Shiell and Emily, our guide, at the sanctuary)
Kudos to our Driver
While we were exploring the site, our skilled and
personable driver, Panos, discovered an issue with our bus that required
repair. Ever resourceful, he secured a substitute vehicle and transported us to
a late lunch while the repairs were underway.
It was yet another reminder that flexibility is essential
for any journey.
A Room with a View
After lunch, we checked into the V Delphi Hotel, where each
room offered a stunning view of the Plistos Valley below, the city of Itea, and
the Corinthian Gulf. The early arrival provided a welcome gift: a couple of
hours of free time.
Some rested. Others explored. I made my first visit to a
European pharmacy to replenish allergy medication, which was small, efficient,
and staffed by a tremendously helpful pharmacist. Even better, the prices were
comparable to those back home in Alabama.
A Good Conclusion to the Day
The evening concluded with another delicious Greek meal. During
these first few days, we have enjoyed a rich variety of dishes, including baked
fish, grilled chicken, meatballs, flavorful pastas, and multiple versions of freshly
baked breads
Tomorrow, we journey onward to Olympia, where the ancient
Olympic Games were born. A three-hour drive awaits us, along with new
discoveries and fresh insights.
For now, we are grateful for safe travels, resilient
spirits, and the joy of the journey…even when the road takes an unexpected
turn.
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