The Mountains Only God Can Conquer
Recognizing Our Limitations
There are certain heights that only the divine can reach. Attempting to scale them will leave us battered and humbled. Wisdom dictates that we avoid these peaks, sidestepping unnecessary stress and anxiety. These mountains are eloquently described in the final phrase of the Lord’s Prayer, “Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” A trio of majestic peaks shrouded in clouds, inspiring awe and reverence.
The Dangers of Self-Reliance
It’s not that we’re not invited to try, but rather that we’re not equipped to succeed. The pronoun “thine” underscores the distinction – it’s God’s kingdom, not ours. If “Savior” is in our job description, it’s because we’ve mistakenly assigned it to ourselves. Our role is to assist and support, not to save or redeem. Mount Messiah is one mountain we weren’t designed to climb.
The Illusion of Self-Sufficiency
Nor are we capable of sustaining the world. Some of us may believe we can, relying solely on our own strength and resilience. We’re self-made, rolling up our sleeves and putting in long hours to achieve success. But when faced with our own mortality or guilt, our power will ultimately fail us. We were not created to run a kingdom, nor are we expected to be all-powerful.
The Seduction of Glory
Mount Applause is perhaps the most alluring of the three peaks. As we ascend, the applause grows louder, but the air grows thinner. Many have stood at the summit, proclaiming, “Mine is the glory!” only to lose their footing and fall. The final phrase of the Lord’s Prayer offers us protection from this hubris. By confessing God’s sovereignty, we acknowledge our own limitations. By proclaiming God’s power, we admit our own weakness. And by giving God all the glory, we’re spared the dizzying effects of pride.
The Freedom of Surrender
In surrendering to God’s kingdom, power, and glory, we find freedom from the burdens of self-reliance and the seduction of glory. We’re reminded that our role is to assist, support, and reverence, rather than to save, sustain, or seek glory.
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