Question: What happens when you get outdoor educators, hikers, environmental stewards, guides, gear junkies, outfitters, Leave No Trace gurus, thrill seekers, camp counselors, trekkers, travelers, backpackers, mountaineers, conservationists, adventure racers, mountain bikers, whitewater river rats and dirtbag climbers doing life together?
Answer: A beautiful picture of the kingdom of God.
During a 2004 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail God showed me what “on earth as it is in heaven” looks like today in the 21st century. Jesus really means for things to happen on this earth, and this side of eternity, as they are happening perfectly and beautifully in heaven right now. His kingdom and his ways, which were ushered in through the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus, are still flourishing in every arena of life and society, and, in particular, in the outdoor scene.
Living in community and caring for those in need. Thinking about and discussing deeply the meaning of this life. Creating space to hear each other out and to consider other perspectives. Crying, laughing, celebrating, hurting, forgiving and encouraging. Time and time again, I see these guideposts for healthy Christian living which were written about in the Bible being lived out in both Christian and non-Christian outdoor communities alike.
The Endurance Discipleship Training School (EDTS) at YWAM Montana-Lakeside exists to do whatever it takes to know God and make him known in the outdoor industry and to the ends of the earth.
The Endurance Discipleship Training School (EDTS) at YWAM Montana-Lakeside exists to do whatever it takes to know God and make him known in the outdoor industry and to the ends of the earth. Being an international Christian missions organization that trains and sends young missionaries, YWAM and EDTS endeavor to engage individuals across the globe with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We seek to live out the kingdom in, and among, the outdoor industry. Calling out where we see “heaven here on earth” is our great privilege. Sharing about the King within communities who have never heard of Him is our calling. Going to the least, the most remote, the forgotten and praying that their lives would be impacted on earth as it is in heaven is our joy.
Be Part of It!
