Psalm 121: 1-3, 8
When we reach the top of a mountain, it is always a special moment. I know that well from experience. We give our all and are often rewarded by incredible summit views.
Life is like that, too. We set goals, do our best, and sometimes reach those mountaintops. But we can’t stay there forever. We all have to descend the mountain, and then it’s back into the struggle and tussle of the valleys.
The disciples learned this lesson for themselves. Having been through the most incredible encounter with Jesus up on a mountain (Matthew 17:1-8, Mark 9:2-8, Luke 9:28-36) they, too, had to descend to where there were crowds and critics. Then to top it all, Jesus started talking about His death and the cost of following Him. There were further tough realities of life awaiting them as well—many failures, lack of understanding, and rivalry. I wonder how often they wished they could have been back up on that mountaintop, alone with Jesus.
While mountaintops inspire us, life’s valleys mature us. The experience of the mountain can help us see life down below in a new and different way. The good times can help fuel us through the times when life is tough, and we have to dig in and get dirty hands and feet.
God knows what He’s doing in our lives. There is a plan. He gives us just what we need at the right time. Whether we’re in a valley or on a mountaintop right now, God is with us. And there is no where you can go where His love cannot reach you.
In His Grip,
Pastor John Walworth