A Mountain Worth Climbing
For many years after our Vacation Bible School I would take our youth group on a 'climb.' After a 4 hour 'Bear Mountain Loop' Laura and I would feed all of them an Alaskan meal (usually moose chili and bear roast). The climb itself was difficult for many and extremely difficult for a few, What was the most important job on this climb? The leader? No, the leader's job was much like a cowboy holding the reins- you simply had to slow the horse down. Otherwise the fastest climbers would be on top an hour ahead of the others.
The most important job was the 'trail'- the person who was the LAST one up the mountain? Why? Because the last person was a skilled, fit climber whose job it was to motivate and encourage those who felt like quitting.- to let them know that they were doing great- that (no matter how slow) we were ahead of schedule. That job was usually mine. You see, I knew something many of those young people didn't know: The secret to climbing a mountain is DON'T QUIT. I KNEW that every single young person could make it to the top I KNEW that a young person who quit would not only feel shame, but also would be much less likely to try climbing again in the future.
I KNEW that there is a sense of confidence and accomplishment when overcoming a difficult challenge that you simply don't get anywhere else. Maybe that challenge for you is sharing your faith. DON'T QUIT. Continue to invite people to church, continue to tell them what Christ has done for you. Sooner or later a person WILL respond, WILL come, WILL be interested in hearing about Christ. THAT is a mountain worth climbing! Be blessed! -Pastor Brad
Written on May 1, 2026
Posted in Daily Devotions