Perspective
The day was clear, crisp and sunny, the sky brilliant blue and the cog train slow and steady as we climbed to over14, 000 feet, passing the tree line, and alighted on the Pikes Peak summit. Several others who make the trip frequently commented on the unusual visibility that day.
The day was clear, crisp and sunny, the sky brilliant blue and the cog train slow and steady as we climbed to over14, 000 feet, passing the tree line, and alighted on the Pikes Peak summit. Several others who make the trip frequently commented on the unusual visibility that day.
Not only did the continental divide stand sharply and raggedly in the distance, but also the guide pointed out on distant horizon not only Kansas but a glimpse of Oklahoma as well. Mountains that from down below loomed tall and imposing, now from this height seemed small in perspective. The majesty of the mountains irresistibly draws my heart toward heaven.
Later, driving along I-25 from Denver to Colorado Springs, the lower mountains totally obscured my vision of Pikes Peak, totally blocking it from view. I couldn’t help but reflect on how this mirrors the way I frequently experience life. God’s big pictures, His kingdom purposes, stand above and beyond the daily challenges and frustrations. Yet how often I allow those daily frustrations to block my view, limit my perspective, and steal my vision and my joy.
I need to carve out time to travel “up the mountain” and regain my perspective. Time alone with God, seeking His perspective on current challenges calms my spirit and refreshes my soul. Time spent enjoying the beauty of creation as this past week gives me perspective and prepares me for the valleys to come. Let’s go mountain climbing daily.
Gwynne Johnson
Gwynne Johnson currently serves on the Board of Entrust, Inc., an international education and training mission where she authored the Entrust curriculum, Developing a Discerning Heart. She recently served as Co-Chair of the training project, Christian Women in Partnership, Russia and as Senior Director of Women's Ministry at Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas. Gwynne has a M.A. in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary. She currently lives in Huntsville, Texas with her husband of 58 years, Don. She works part-time in her daughter and granddaughter's bakery "The Best Box Ever," where she gets paid in cookies.
