From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I – Psalm 61:2
I love going into the mountains. Walking, hiking, exploring the beauty of God’s creation. Hiking used to be one of my favorite hobbies. It still would be, but I will confess with 3 young children we don’t go as often as we would like. We have tried, though, but 3 kids, and only two backs in which to carry is a very difficult thing. Even with 2 young ones it can be difficult. Samantha and I joke about the hiking trip we took when Sawyer was about 1. It wasn’t a long hike, something like 5 miles. We knew Sawyer wouldn’t walk that much and had intended to carry him in a backpack carrier. Sean, was about 4 and loved walking, so we figured he would be fine. We were wrong. We carried both of them, trading off back and forth for at least 4.75 of our 5 mile hike. After that, we decided we’d try again when they were older.
We have tried to go over the years. Some days are good successes, the kids enjoy being out, and walk on their own legs for most of the trip. Other times, we have to carry them, or bargain with them, or seemingly drag them to keep on going. But when I really think about that, isn’t that just a great metaphor for our relationship with God? Truthfully, that is how our relationship with God goes most of the time. There are good day, when we enjoy our walk with Christ, when we are excited about the opportunities we have in ministry and mission. Other days, not so much, and then we begin to need carrying, or bargaining for some reward with maybe even God, or perhaps a good friend/spouse drags us to do something that would be meaningful to our souls.
Our psalm reminds us that when our hearts are faint, we need to be lead to the rock that is higher than we. Even though a hike may be difficult, or the dragging of kids has made it difficult; when you get to that high place, were the trees clear a bit, and you can see down into the valley, or across to the next mountain ridge and see the beauty of it all, you know it’s been worth it. You know God has made this for your enjoyment. You, then, realize that your tantrums, and whining about having to make the climb aren’t what it meaningful. Instead, seeing God’s beauty, being in God’s presence, and knowing God’s grace are what brings meaning to every moment.
In times such as these, we need to know that rock that is higher than we. We need to seek that place where all is at peace, where our whining disappears, and all that matters is the beauty of God’s face shining upon us. May your day be bright and your feet firmly planted on the rock. Amen.
Grace & Peace,
Sam
If you want a little bonus pick-me-up today, click the link below to hear a song performed by one of Resurrection Youth Ministry bands, I Am They, a few years ago. It speaks of the glorious rock on which we need to plant our feet. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uYiHiJTN6Y