From Deleware Shores to New Jersey Mountains: Faith, Fall, and Halloween

As the states grew smaller, our adventures grew bigger! Fall found us relaxing on Delaware’s peaceful beaches, then jumping over to Maryland for a Halloween event. While exploring New Jersey’s mountains, we also made it to the Poconos for a gorgeous day trip. 

Come along as we discover the beauty of each place!

Bethany Beach, DE

Our drive to Bethany Beach came with a surprise—cash-only tolls! 

Thankfully, we had a stash of coins on hand. With quarters all spent on laundry, I counted out our fare in pennies, dimes, and nickels, while the patient attendant waited for me to finish. Finally, we made it through the inland roads and crossed beautiful bridges to Delaware’s quiet, off-season beaches.

Delaware Seashore State Park

At Delaware Seashore State Park, we enjoyed open spaces with beautiful views and full hookups. The sunshine and strong Starlink connection were great perks, though the open area also left us exposed to some wind and rain. Not every day was stormy, though—sunny days in the 60s were perfect for walking the bridge, getting in my steps, and soaking up the scenery.

We also checked out the boardwalks at Bethany Beach, Rehoboth, and Fenwick Island. My son especially loved the fries with vinegar, a classic East Coast treat we’d never tried before. 

From our campsite, we could walk or bike to the harbor. I always enjoy harbor strolls, admiring the different boats, reading their names, and, of course, finding good food nearby.

The beaches were stunning. My son even discovered his first horseshoe crab on the shores of Bethany Beach. We hadn’t known what to expect from Delaware, but it truly impressed us.

Halloween in Ocean City, MD

For Halloween, we drove to Ocean City, Maryland. We stopped by the boardwalk, braving the cold and wind as most shops were closed. We decided to make the best of it and bought pocket kites, which were so much fun to fly!

The kids also picked out some creepy masks and we headed to a harvest festival. They scored candy, played games, and traded tickets for prizes. My son even gave all his tickets to a younger child—definitely a proud mom moment.

I’ve never been particularly big on Halloween. When the kids were little, it was a fun day for them—dressing up and getting candy. But as they’ve grown, it’s become just another day for us. 

I know Halloween can be a bit of a hot topic among Christians, though. I’m curious, how do you feel about it?

Oak Ridge, NJ

Driving through the Poconos on our way to Oak Ridge, New Jersey, gave us a sneak peek of the area’s beauty, and we knew we’d have to return. Oak Ridge itself was stunning, with vibrant fall foliage all around.

Mahlon Dickerson Reservation County Park

We stayed at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation County Park, a quiet, wooded spot for only $25 per night. There was even a geocache nearby that we had to track down. 

Locals suggested we visit Lake Hopatcong, so we added that to our list for next time. 

And New Jersey gave us a wild welcome—a black bear just hanging out on someone’s front lawn!

Bushkill Falls, PA

Bushkill Falls was one of my favorite stops! Visiting in the fall was incredible. The boardwalks led us past beautiful falls, creeks, and fiery autumn foliage. The view from the top was breathtaking.

East Stroudsburg, PA

After exploring Bushkill Falls, we grabbed a bite in East Stroudsburg at Maritas for some tasty Southwest food, then stopped by the World Famous $5 Candy Shop. East Stroudsburg charmed us with its small-town vibe and inviting atmosphere.

Overall Experience

We had an incredible experience at every stop along our journey. In New Jersey, my husband connected with a fellow Marine at a meeting who introduced us to Wounded Warrior.

This connection has been such a blessing in our lives, extending doors for our full-time travels, seminary school, and our current home. It’s another way God has shown His favor on our faith journey. 

Although we’ve navigated some deep challenges, our perseverance and faith have resulted in even greater blessings. 

While nobody wants to face hard times, trials, or persecution, I have learned that these experiences are vital for growth, helping us savor the richness of love, mercy, and grace.

2 Timothy 3:12 (NASB)

“Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

Context

Paul tells his mentee Timothy that anyone who seeks to live a godly life in Christ will face persecution, using his own suffering as an example. He contrasts this with the growing deception of evil people. 

Paul then encourages Timothy to stay true to the teachings he has learned and emphasizes the value of Scripture for guidance and equipping believers.

Reflection

• The theme of persecution has come up a lot lately, and I must admit, it stirs up a mix of nerves and contemplation.

• Conversations with missionaries and those from different countries have opened my eyes to the stark reality that many American Christians live blissfully unaware of the struggles faced by our brothers and sisters around the globe.

• During our visit to the Menno-Hof Museum in Shipshewana, Indiana, I was moved by the stories of the forgotten Anabaptists who bravely upheld their faith against government oppression. Their courage in standing for truth fills me with gratitude and purpose.

• Here in America, it seems we have the luxury of choosing whether or not to face persecution. While it exists, it’s nowhere near the levels experienced globally. Many can proudly identify as Christians without pushback. However, taking a bold stand for truth in our increasingly selfish and politically correct society may lead to ridicule, exclusion, or conflict.

• I am thankful that I haven’t had to face extreme suffering for my faith, but I recognize how quickly circumstances can change, especially in our current political climate. 

• Instead of being caught off guard, like we were with the pandemic, let’s prepare ourselves to stand firm in our beliefs. Remember, the rewards for our faith far surpass any temporary trials we may encounter 2 Corinthians 4:17-18.

Inspiring Quotes

1. C.S. Lewis: “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”

2. John Piper: “If you don’t feel a sense of being loved by God, then you won’t be able to bear the suffering that comes your way.”

3. Tim Keller: “The gospel is this: we are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time, we are more loved and accepted in Christ than we ever dared hope.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for the adventures and lessons of life. As we reflect on the challenges faced by Christians around the world, help us to stand firm in our faith, knowing that Your love and grace sustain us through every trial. May we always look to You for strength and encouragement, embracing the hope of the eternal glory that awaits us. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

• I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below. 

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