Frustration gave birth to my desire to try mountain climbing. In the midst of fighting to overcome the painful debilitation of bursitis in both hips, exercise was reduced to millimeter movements. It so annoyed me that I set a (ridiculous) goal of mountain climbing by my 60th birthday. It didn’t happen…but the desire didn’t leave. And finally at 61.5 I made it to the mountain! In my usual way, I had gathered some other friends of like age to join me in a goal most called foolish and unrealistic.
We met our courageous and encouraging guide with both laughter and prayers. When Tito was told we had prayed for him—and for God to use him for our adventure—he replied, “I hope God uses me every day.” And God did! May a glimpse of our mountain lessons bless you, too.
Learn to Trust Your Guide
From the first moment we met Tito, he began to encourage and reassure us. He celebrated the “courage” to try mountain climbing at an age when many experienced climbers stop climbing. On the hike to the mountain, he intentionally built our confidence. He assured us of his experience and commitment to a safe, enjoyable adventure for us. Tito conversationally shared the details that have been given attention. We learned about the strength of the rocks we would climb upon. He spoke of monitoring of the weather forecast and explained the testing of the equipment. With every word, he purposefully built the secure foundation we needed to face the mountain.
The one mile hike to the mountain offered the first challenge…and Tito attentively and patiently counseled rests as needed. He offered suggestions on how to help our bodies meet the challenge: Step on flat spots. Stop on level areas, rest tired muscles by changing angles. When we reached the side-trail that led us to the mountain, Tito instructed us to put on our helmets. A hiker passing by on the roadway called out, “I’ve hiked here twenty years and wouldn’t go up that trail.” We chuckled and took a breath and followed our guide up the steep trail with its loose rocks. Reaching the top of the trail, we had a clear view of the looming mountain.
Realize Your Guide Goes Before You
Tito led us to the place we would climb. He told us to rest as he climbed the mountain (without safety ropes) to prepare it for our safe ascent. Once the lines were in place, he explained how the equipment worked. Then he showed us how to put on our own climbing harnesses. At last, it was time to climb.
The harness was hooked to the belay device (a grigri I believe) that our guide would manage at all times. That little device saved every one of us at some point in our climb. When we lost our footing on the mountain, the device prevented a fall. We began the climb by putting our weight on it while still able to stand on a solid ledge. It gave us confidence that let us climb without fear.
Rely on the Encouragement From Another View
A community of encouragers is more powerful than we often realize. While the guide gave instructions (“move your foot to the left, there’s a toe hold there”), the encouragement from other climbers gave hope. “You’re almost there. You’re doing great.” The words mattered. You can’t see the toe holds, you can’t see how far you’ve come. You’re looking at a mountain that seems smooth and impossible. But what you see isn’t the whole story.
Life’s Mountains Need a Guide
God is our guide. He has looked at all the angles and is committed to restoring us to Himself. Rely on Him. He provides the equipment we need, and He’s tested it. Listen to his instructions and enjoy the adventure.
It could go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway. Without Tito as our guide we would never have made it to the mountain, let alone up the mountain. We would have given up. Choose the right guide for your adventures — but be sure to choose Jesus as your guide through this life. He will lead you to an adventurous journey to the heart of the Father. Follow Him without fear!
