A few months ago, I had the privilege of hiking with my neighbor. We wandered into the forest toward the imposing mountain behind our homes. As we trekked along, I noticed she was cautiously avoiding the rocks, intentionally placing each foot on the dirt. Unfortunately, the dirt on this trail is littered with pebbles that can provide an unexpected and unwelcome skid to the forest floor, if there is much incline. I encouraged her to consider making use of the trustworthily placed rocks and avoiding the dirt as much as possible. Of course, some of the rocks appear solidly placed but wobble or even give way under the weight of a human foot. But, with experience, an astute hiker can become adept at choosing the right rocks to trust.
I often think about the parallels between safe hiking on Mount Elden and navigating the slippery paths of our constantly changing culture. Sometimes we think we have found solid footing only to discover it is unsound and opposed to the Truth.
Isn’t it interesting that God calls Jesus a Stone rejected by the builders which became the Cornerstone (Psalm 118:22; Matt. 21:42)? How many times in the Psalms does He refer to Himself as a Rock (Psalm 18:2, for example)? Strategically placed rocks provide stability in an uncertain environment.
When Jesus was born, life was uncertain at best. And our world is as well. War, famine, crime, riots, natural disasters, confusion, hopelessness, and anxiety are pervasive. If ever we needed a Rock, it is now. Let us decisively and intentionally choose to trust in this Rock of our Salvation at this Christmas and throughout our lives.
Gratefully,
Martha Gushee
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