CLIMBING

George Mallory was a mountain climber who was last seen heading towards the summit of Mount Everest in June 1924. We don’t know if he made it to the top. He never came back down. He was once asked why he wanted to climb Everest. His answer was simply, “Because it’s there!” That may sound strange to us. For mountaineers, Everest’s challenging peak is itself all the motivation they need to have a go at it.

The book of Hebrews teaches us that just as mountain climbers are focused on the mountain in front of them, we are to be focused on Jesus. The writer encourages us to look back at the examples of other Christians (in our lives and in the Bible’s story), but not to look back on our past mistakes and sins (HEBREWS 12:1). He tells us to keep going and not give up by “fixing our eyes on Jesus” (V.2).

Jesus started our faith and He will keep us growing to be more like Him, completing the work when we are in heaven (V.2; PHILIPPIANS 1:6). As we read and think about Jesus’ example, we’ll realise that He went through so much more than us and so will help us to get through our own issues by His strength (HEBREWS 12:3-4).

When mountaineers get tired, they look at the goal—at the summit—and climb on. When we struggle, we can trust in Jesus who is preparing us a room in His home (JOHN 14:1-3).

What I’m thankful for . . .

Thank You, Jesus, that I can put my focus on You. Your story is incredible— and all You did, You did for me. When I want to give up, You are my strength, my energy, my fuel for everything!