A Canyon’s Worth of Gratitude
Isn’t it just like our Creator to turn what the world sees as a challenge to faith into one of faith’s strongest witnesses?
One afternoon, I stood at Yavapai Point watching a group of ravens soaring on the thermals rising from the canyon depths. They weren’t searching for food or racing to a destination—they were simply riding the currents of warm air with what looked remarkably like joy. It reminded me of Jesus’ words about how God provides for the birds of the air (Matthew 6:26), and on this Thanksgiving day, I can’t help but reflect on God’s abundant provision.
Here at Canyon Ministries, we’ve had a year filled with ‘God moments’ that leave us in awe. From watching the sunset paint the canyon walls during our rim tours, to sharing meals with guests along the Colorado River, to seeing eyes light up when someone first understands how the Grand Canyon supports the biblical account of Creation and the Flood—each moment has been a gift worth celebrating.
You know what strikes me most? It’s how God often uses this massive canyon—a place that some view as evidence against Him—as one of His most powerful testimonies. Every layer, every stratum, every fossil tells His story. Isn’t it just like our Creator to turn what the world sees as a challenge to faith into one of faith’s strongest witnesses?
This Thanksgiving season, I’m particularly grateful for:
- The families who’ve trusted us to guide them through God’s outdoor classroom
- Our incredible team of guides who share their knowledge and faith with such passion
- The partnerships God has provided with like-minded organizations
- The countless moments when we’ve seen understanding dawn in someone’s eyes, like the first light touching the canyon rim
But most of all, I’m thankful for how God continues to use this magnificent canyon to draw people to Himself. Just recently, while leading a rim tour, one of our guests pointed to the Great Unconformity and asked, “How could anyone look at this and not see God’s hand?” Those moments of recognition are like finding precious gems hidden in plain sight.
As we gather with our families this Thanksgiving, many of us will follow the tradition of sharing what we’re thankful for around the dinner table. Some might mention health, family, or provision. Others might express gratitude for new opportunities or challenges overcome. But here at Canyon Ministries, we’re thankful for something that spans both time and eternity—the privilege of sharing God’s Word through His works.
The apostle Paul wrote, “I thank my God every time I remember you” (Philippians 1:3), and that’s exactly how we feel about our Canyon Ministries family—both those who work alongside us and those who’ve joined us on tours. Each of you is part of this continuing story of God’s faithfulness.
So wherever you’re celebrating Thanksgiving today, remember that our gratitude for you, like the canyon itself, runs deep. And just as every layer in the canyon walls tells His story, every blessing in our lives points back to the Master Designer who has brought us together in miraculous ways.
Eternally grateful,
Nate
