Glory on the Mountain

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD, “a future filled with hope - a future of success, not of suffering.”  -- Jeremiah 29:11

Claude loved to climb tall mountains for fun and to impress his friends.  He was confident; he felt he could handle any terrain despite the risks.

During one such adventure, he decided to climb the final leg solo, so he could get there first and claim all the glory.  While the rest of his party slept, he put on his climbing gear and headed for the top. 

Claude knew it was foolish to climb alone at night.  He did use a rope and had the advantage of a full moon, however.   His confidence soared as he neared the summit . . .  until the weather turned ugly – fast!  Visibility dropped rapidly as heavy fog engulfed him.  He was in trouble - but it was too late to turn back.  He continued his trek upward, hoping the storm would pass quickly.

Moving along a narrow path in total darkness, he missed a step and slid down the side of the ridge and over the edge of a cliff.  Luckily, he was still alive after the fall; although he found himself dangling in mid air, suspended by his rope, in complete blackness.  Fear gripped him as the cold night air chilled him to the bone. 

In desperation he cried out, “Dear God, please help me!”

Suddenly, a strong deep voice boomed out, “Cut the rope!” “Are you kidding me?” he doubted.  As Claude listened over the icy wind, he once again heard a deep voice say, “Cut the rope!”

 Could it be the God he had cried out for?  Could this be his final punishment for a lifetime of self absorption and foolish choices?  Could this be the end?

Deathly silence followed.  Claude considered his prospects.   He’d probably die anyway from exposure to the icy cold.  So after a short prayer and a deep breath, he cut the rope, and fell . . .

five feet, onto a rock ledge - a safe area where he quickly built a fire, using some of the surrounding scrub brush.  He survived that night.

What are the chances?  Actually 100%. If you really want to know the richness of God’s presence in your life, if you want to live in a way that matters for all eternity, then you must “cut the rope!’ and occasionally step into the great Unknown.  Faith requires us to believe what we can’t see; to lose control of our way and chose His path instead.

“Lord of Heaven and earth, help us to be sure about our faith despite our uncertainty. We know that there is a big difference between knowing what we should do . . . and actually having the courage to do it.  Teach us to trust you knowing that in doing so, You will cast away our fears and bring us new energy and joy.  Amen