North Dakota: Capturing God's Beauty

Malawi Mission Trip Update:

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who’s been praying for, supporting, and sharing our Malawi trip—we’re already a third of the way to our goal!

This week, I’m asking for prayer as we get our vaccinations. Please pray for no bad reactions—we’ve got a lot ahead of us, and your prayers mean so much.

Linton, North Dakota

Our full-time RV journey led us to Linton, North Dakota—a small farm town tucked along the Missouri River. Surrounded by acres of farmland and endless skies, this place was the perfect retreat to step back, breathe, and photograph the beauty of God's creation.

Join me as I take you through some of the memorable moments of our time in Linton, North Dakota and share how even a quiet town can stir the soul.

Beaver Creek Campground: A Quiet Getaway

We arrived in Linton in early August, when the weather was a perfect 80 degrees. Our campground, located at an Army Corps of Engineers, had zero cell service, making it the perfect place to unwind.

If you ever visit, make sure to bring horseshoes and fill up your water tank before setting up camp!

And yes—true to its name—there were beavers! 

A Round of Golf in Linton

Linton’s casual golf course gave us a lighthearted afternoon. Scott, our son, and myself enjoyed some friendly competition, while my daughter had a blast zipping around the empty course in the golf cart. 

"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things."- Robert Brault

Hiking the Trails

One of the most unforgettable parts of our trip was a hike right from our campground. We followed a trail that led us through fields and overlooked the stunning Lake Oahe.

As we hiked, a summer storm began to brew in the distance, and the sunset that followed was beyond breathtaking.

As I reflect on this moment, I can’t help but think of Nehemiah 9:6:

“You are the one and only God. You created the heavens, the highest heavens, and all the host of heavens. You created the earth and everything on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.”

Next Time

Three nights in Linton gave us just enough time to explore, but if we return, I’d love to kayak the Missouri River. We’ve also heard great things about the Dakota Zoo in Bismarck, just an hour away.

Looking Ahead: Medora, North Dakota

We didn’t make it to Medora on this trip, but it’s definitely on our radar for next time! Here’s why we’re looking forward to it:

The Medora Musical:

This outdoor show is a mix of Western music, comedy, and a tribute to Theodore Roosevelt. Our family (RaeMa and Pop) loved it, and we can’t wait to experience it ourselves!

Theodore Roosevelt National Park:

Just outside Medora, this park is a must-see. We hear the hiking trails are incredible.

Trails we can’t wait to explore:

Wind Canyon Trail (0.4 miles): A short hike with incredible views of the Little Missouri River.

Petrified Forest Trail (10.4 miles): A longer hike showcasing ancient petrified wood.

Coal Vein Trail (0.8 miles): A loop that takes you through some fascinating geologic features.

Reflecting on Nehemiah 9:6

Context:

In Nehemiah 9:6, the Levites offer a prayer during a time of repentance and renewal in Israel, remembering God’s greatness as the Creator, Sustainer, and Deliverer. They praise Him for His sovereignty over all things—from the heavens above to the earth below.

Reflection:

It’s awe-inspiring to realize that every mountain, tree, and river around us exists because of God’s will.

Nature isn’t just beautiful—it’s a reflection of His power, His beauty, and the care God pours into everything He creates.

Even if you don’t know God personally, there’s something in the quiet of nature that calls out to your heart, stirring a recognition of a Creator who made it all with love and purpose.

Application:

God doesn’t just create; He sustains.

Just as He cares for the earth and everything in it, He cares for every season of our lives.

Creation worships Him in its beauty, and we’re invited to join in that worship through how we live. 

"The most important thing about the universe is that God created it and that it reveals His glory. When we see the beauty of creation, we see the glory of the Creator, and this stirs worship in our hearts."- John Piper

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the beauty of creation that speaks to Your greatness. For those who don’t yet know You, may the beauty of your creation open their eyes to see and ears to hear. Help us all to reflect Your glory in our lives.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

• Thank you for being part of this adventure with us—it means more than you know. I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below. 

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