Is Estes Park open?

It's 8:03am and the phone is ringing again.  I pick it up and say, "Brownfield's, this is Jamie."  The next question has become a standard recently.  The caller says, "Is Estes Park open?"  Based on the number of inquiries we and other businesses are receiving, there is clearly some confusion regarding the status of Estes Park.  Let's take a moment to help clear some things up.

1.  Estes is open!  It's open for residents.  It's open for visitors.  And, it's open for business.  

2.  Estes is open for exploration.  Rocky Mountain National Park is open and welcoming all to explore and discover this magnificent treasure.  Beginning on June 4th, a timed entry system will be available for park visitation.  The website is easy to use.  Within 2-3 minutes, you can reserve a spot to explore one of America's finest national parks.  (Head to this website to make your reservation:  https://www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/2907)

3.  Estes is open for escape.  As we are all aware, the pressure and problems in the world seem to be mounting.  Months of stress, struggle, and serious physical, social, emotional, and financial concerns have taken a toll on people.  We need hope.  We need a safe haven.  We need to have a place to find restoration and rejuvenation.  Estes Park has met this need for over a century.  People come from near and far to find rest in the marvelous mountains of Colorado.

In the Message version of the Bible, Jesus' invitation in modern language sounds something like this:  “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

What a fitting invitation for such a time as this!  Come...to Colorado.  Come...to the comfort of Estes Park.  Come...to Christ who offers real rest.