(Excerpt from the Preface to Leona's book in
progress: “STILL MORE! Flourishing on My Summit” The
third book in her “MORE”
Trilogy)
I stand at the foothills gazing at the high mountain of
my advancing years. It is unsettling. I seem to lack
courage to climb another mountain given my failing body and
diminishing strength. I'm not prepared—I haven't passed this way
before. Somehow I missed enrolling in a class called “AGING 101.”
My own questions bombard me: How can I
expect STILL MORE of God's goodness and mercy as I grow older?
Haven't they run out, been used up, and are no longer available?
Isn't rocking chair living all there is to look forward to? Shouldn't
I be satisfied with 'been there--done that'? Isn't there only ho-hum
living ahead? Hasn't God withdrawn His calling and purpose for my life at this
late calendar season?
After all, I've done enough hill
climbing in my lifetime. My zeal for exploration has leaked out. I
think I've achieved my summit already. My greatest hours have come and
gone. I
deserve to take it easy. Can't I just settle down here in the shade of comfortable foothills and relax 'on the way Home'?
Mountains are known for their echoes.
I listen for the echo of my own voice. I expect it to bounce back and
agree with me, to imitate my despair.
A Voice does echo but it doesn't mimic
my discouragement. It doesn't sound like my voice bouncing back to
me...but I recognize Him! My Good Shepherd and I have a long track record so
I know and trust His Voice.
Be of good cheer! It is pressing-on
time. Dare to climb this mountain and reach the special summit which I have
planned for you.
In Me you will have the courage to strive forward
and discover the richness and blessings of summit living. That season
of your life will be as flourishing as your verdant valleys have
been. At your summit you can look through the lens of the Holy Spirit
to see even further horizons, more peaks in the distance.
You are in your
advanced years but they can be advancing
years not retreating
years. Come with Me to explore together 'what eye has not yet seen
nor ear heard.' Stay hungry and thirsty for MORE of the fullness of
what I have prepared for those who love Me and trust Me over the long
haul. Be willing to stay the course, to persevere, to endure, to
receive the prize of My high calling. My rod and My staff will
comfort and sustain you.
Kindle again the fire in your soul that is
burning low. Stir up the embers of your first love for Me. Embrace
your latter journey with hope and optimism for I have promised never
to leave you nor forsake you in your 'graying years.'
My purpose for
your life is not complete yet. I have saved some of the best wine
until last! So, “gird up your loins...,”
pull up your socks, lace up your hiking boots, and climb to your
summit with Me....
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