September 3, 2023
Moving Mountains
By Fay Simpson
This summer Heather and I finally were able to take our retirement trip to Alaska. It was our fourth time booking this trip, but due to Covid we kept having to cancel. Well, it’s true – good things are worth waiting for. Our other three attempts God knew it was not meant to be, but this year God provided a clear path for us and it was our time to see this beautiful world we live in that God created for us.
There are so many natural creations to see that it truly leaves you feeling “awe-inspired.” From flying over the Canadian Rocky Mountains to being at the foothills looking out into the thrilling beauty of thousands of years-old glaciers and the snow-covered Alaskan Mountains. Each having their own uniqueness just as we do in our little place in the world.
Seeing so many of God’s creatures in their natural environment was extremely heart warming. In the vast waters of the ocean, watching the Sea Otters floating on their backs, Harbour Seals, Porpoises and Humpback Whales, all doing their skilful aquatic dance in their home God created for them. Sea Lions on the shore, lazing in the sun and the Mama Moose teaching her baby calf skills it will need in its future. We have been blessed to be able to experience so much.
However, you don’t need to travel too far to enjoy nature. When you step back and take a look around, don’t simply look, but see what surrounds you. See the beauty in your garden or a nearby park or beach, the St. Lawrence River we so often take for granted -- we live in such a picturesque part of the world. God our creator has provided us a magnificent world to live in.
I have to say the massive mountains however are what I am remembering at this time. They hold such beauty and strength; their shear size is so impressive and overwhelming that you would not believe you could alter them in any way. Nevertheless, over the years they too get moved and shaped by the elements that surround them and come in contact with them. So, when you read in the bible, Matthew 17:20
“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, move from here to there and it will move.”
All creatures large and small, just as we do, have to overcome the hurdles that sometimes come into their path. If you have things in your life that seem overwhelming and you feel like you are facing directly into a mountain – have faith. Draw on your faith as it can work miracles, alter that mountain in a way that you can control it and are able to deal with it.
This reading from Matthew is telling us faith can move mountains. Trust in yourself and believe your faith in God possesses power. The point Jesus was making is that even a little bit of faith – faith the size of a tiny mustard seed can overcome mountainous obstacles in our lives.
Blessed be to God!!
Amen
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