Friday, November 26, 2021
Greetings, Dear Friends ~
I hope you enjoyed a blessed Thanksgiving with your family!!!
It is my privilege and blessing to share part three, our final in the series, “Keep Climbing Your Mountain.” I want to begin by asking, “What awaits you on top of your mountain?”
When you began your ascent, you might have had many questions. Having had some time to ponder the purpose of the mountain, maybe you have arrived at a place where you have greater understanding. However, you might still be in a place of discovering what your climb is actually all about. Our perspectives change as we climb. We might have begun thinking one way, and discovered in our journey some other, greater, purpose.
Let’s pause here, though, to say, “Thank You, Lord, for giving me the strength and fortitude to keep going!” Hallelujah!!!!
When I climbed Mt. Sinai with a small group of people (including my mother) in 2001, it was an amazing journey. As we reached the top third of the mountain, the journey became more challenging—the air was thinner (atmosphere) and we had been walking for a while in the heat of the day. Yet, we each remained purposed to reach the top!
At one point in our climb, I dropped my bottle of water down into an area that had to be carefully maneuvered. I needed the water. It was the only one I had and it was very hot outside. My mother told me that she wanted to pick it up. I did not think it was a good idea, but realized the Lord was working within her to enable her to overcome her fear (i.e., her fear of climbing such a height). I reluctantly agreed to let her get my bottle of water for me. She did it! I was relieved and celebrated her accomplishment with her! But it wasn’t over yet.
As we continued to climb, it became more difficult. During one of those difficult times, my mother became more fearful about walking to the top of the mountain. She stopped, being weary, and stretched her body over a large rock, in her fear of continuing. As she did, I began to pray out loud so she could hear me. As I prayed, I watched her become stronger, and more determined to complete the climb. The Holy Spirit was at work! We kept going. We made it to the top! We all celebrated!!!
Read Mark 9:2-13
When Jesus took Peter, John, and James to the top of the mountain, the Mount of Transfiguration, they had gone there to pray. At least, this is what the disciples seemed to understand. But, God had more plans for them—plans that would be miraculous through the prayers on the mountaintop! When Jesus and the disciples reached the top, the Lord God allowed them to see Jesus transformed before them. His garment was a brilliant white and glistening! They saw Jesus talking with Moses and Elijah about was ahead for Jesus in Jerusalem.
On the mountaintop, the disciples not only witnessed Jesus’ transformation before them, but they heard God’s Voice:
“And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a Voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son: hear Him” (Mark 9:7, KJV).
There are times when God calls us to the mountain to hear what He needs to reveal to us. Getting away from our worries, cares, concerns, distractions, schedules, etc., allow us to clearly discern or hear the Lord. The opportunity and blessing to hear from God gives us hope, renewed purpose, understanding, and direction.
What does the Lord desire to reveal to you?
I encourage you to make your way, to keep climbing your mountain! God has a purpose for calling you to come up higher. May you hear and respond when He calls. May your experience with Him, as it was with our Lord Jesus, be transformational!
The Lord bless you and keep you as we prepare to enter the Season of Advent.
Until next time, My Friend,
Selah
Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement. As you and your Mom demonstrated, it takes perseverance to continue climbing. The reward that awaits at the top is so worthwhile. Thanks be to God.