I have a fascination with mountains and oceans. They are very tangible reminders of the power, creativity, and care of God. I cannot look at them and not be blown away. God has used mountains to symbolize my journey with him many times, including since I’ve been on the race. India was a tough month for me personally, and on the flights to Nepal I was praying that the Lord would continue to show me the lessons learned there and how they apply to my life in the future. I was praying for patience and the tools I needed to not just survive Nepal, like I did India, but instead to embrace the culture and fearlessly dive into whatever the Lord is calling me to do in every moment. “I want to keep growing, but I need the tools and strength to do so, Father.” I prayed, I listened, and when I opened my eyes, there were the Himalayas. Even from the tiny window of the plane, they were breathtaking. In that moment, I felt not only awestruck, but also such comfort as I rested in his promises. “If God cared enough to create such an exquisite place as this, how much more does he care about me?” I thought back to the story in the book “Hind’s Feet on High Places.” In the book (which you should read) the main character is progressively refined as she journeys with the Lord who gives her the tools she needs to keep going all along the way. When I think of this story, I think of my own. Through every trial, the Lord has never failed me, but has instead brought me through with many lessons to pass on to others. That’s the beauty of the journey, with all its difficult, joyful mess. And that’s the beauty of the body of Christ, that our trials don’t go to waste, but as we see God’s faithfulness shine through it all we gain hope and knowledge that we get to pass along to our brothers and sisters. So, through the ups and downs, peaks and valleys, God equips us, loves us through our mess, and stays faithful. This is the journey we are all on in Christ, from glory to glory, and this is my reminder.
