I come to the edge of a dropoff. I stop to take in the incredible scenery. The view is fantastic. I gather my strength and quiet my mind and point the skis down the mountain. At this point, I trust my former instructors and just shift my weight from side to side, changing the edges of the skis as needed to maintain control and balance.
I have not been skiing for several years, and the adrenaline kicked in when I decided to go down an intermediate run instead of a beginner’s path. Fear gave way to freedom as I managed the blue trail just fine. No broken bones, nor any other injuries occurred. My joy and courage replaced the feeling of looking down over the steep edge of the hill.
Life is learning how to equip one’s self to tackle whatever inclines one may face. Sometimes the angle of the dropoff is intimidating and appears impossible to conquer. In these times of fear, we must depend on the one who taught us how to manage the requirements that are needed to overcome anything that stands in our way from living the life for which we were created.
Today I am grateful for getting to admire the beauty of nature and to soothe my mind long enough to celebrate a victory. May we all trust in the One, who created us. I hope that we can find that God-given place that ignites a divine spark of joy and gratitude. We bathe in the resources of the oasis of salvation that gives us strength to face a wilderness that at times, offers us very little respite.
Climb the mountain, whatever that may be, look over the edge and go for it! May your heart be reminded that we are made in the image of God, blessed and created to live a life that casts out fear. With Divine help, may you get to the end of the struggle and celebrate with holy joy! Praise be to God, who continues to give us all we need to conquer whatever dropoffs we may face in our lives.
From a Pastor's Point of View 