Lessons from Climbing the Lighthouse

Philippians 3:13-14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

I started climbing the 93 foot tall lighthouse at Aquina Head in Newport, OR with enthusiasm and excitement. I wanted to reach the top to see what the light looked like at the top as well as see the view from there. However, as I climbed higher and higher fear began to set in. I looked down and saw how far down it was to the floor below and the fear set me to clinging to the wall and hand rail with both hands. I wanted to turn back, but I didn't want to be wimpy in front of my children. So I took a deep breath, set my focus on what was above me and continued to climb the stairs. I actually made it to the top and was rewarded with a great view, my curiosity about the light satisfied and the satisfaction that I really could overcome my fear and do this!

As I have reflected on this experience, God has taught me something. In the Christian life, we must forget those things from the past that hinder our progress toward the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. In looking back at where I had been, fear set in and hindered me in my progress toward the top of the lighthouse. In our walk with God, the same thing can happen. We can look back at our failures and fear can set in paralyzing us in our Christian growth and progress toward the prize. Romans 8:15 tells us we have not received the spirit of bondage to fear. "For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. " Also, 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and love and a sound mind. Put those things from the past that cause you to fear out of your mind and focus on Christ and the prize awaiting you ahead.

Another thing I learned from my climb in the lighthouse is that we must keep our eyes on the prize. I took my eyes off the goal of reaching the top to look down and it hindered my progress toward the top. The Bible tells us to reach toward those things that are ahead--toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God. You can't very well move forward if you are looking backward and worrying about what bad things might happen ahead of you.

The third thing I learned, was that we will have to endure some suffering and pain if we are going to reach the prize. My leg muscles began to feel achy by the time I got back to the bottom of the spiral staircase. The next day I felt as if I could hardly walk due to the stiffness and soreness. But all the same, I felt it was worth the goal achieved. So it is here on this earth. We are going to go through times of suffering and pain as we progress toward our heavenly goal. Don't let that deter you from pressing on. Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Keep pressing on toward your heavenly prize....the high calling of God in Christ Jesus!

Dear Father, You never cease to amaze me with the insights You give through everyday things and activities that I encounter. Please help me to put into practice the things that You teach me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.