From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalm 61:2
I grew up near a river. You quickly learn to get to higher ground when the river starts to rise. You also learn it is not the rain you get but the rain the folks upstream got that is important. The trek up that rocky bluff can be exhausting, especially when you are carrying all the belongings that have accumulated down by the riverfront – chairs, towels, coolers, toys, rafts, pets. If it is a flash flood, you have to make a choice what gets left behind.
When situations arise that are bigger than we are and we cry out to God for help, do we ask Him to carry us up the rock that is higher? Perhaps. I carried a few small ones up the bluff. Mostly though, the kids walked by our side and carried what they could. The Psalmist asks God to lead him to that higher ground. That means we, as more mature Christians, have to be willing to make the trek. Our old burdens, possessions or what we thought was important may have to be left behind.
Perhaps that is the purpose of climbing up to the higher place- to learn to release what is keeping us from making the climb. Is God calling you up to higher ground? Perhaps you do not see the floods that will be raging, but He does. Time to make the climb. He will be right beside every step of the way and will help you carry your stuff, or tell you when to leave it behind. If you get too weary, He will even carry you. Do not be afraid of the rocks that are higher than you. The journey up them is a special time with your Savior. Only He knows what awaits you at the top. Moses discovered a burning bush. John and Peter saw the Transfiguration. David found refuge.
Heavenly Lord, You are all knowing, all seeing and all loving. Let me respond with eagerness when You call me to a higher place. Forgive me if I weary of the trek or complain that it is hard. I know it is a journey You lead me on for my good and Your glory. Let me relish in the special time with you as we climb. For You are my rock, my refuge, my teacher and my God. who sacrificed Himself for me. Amen.
“My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock, and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2
