When I placed this picture, I deliberately sized it to it original size because I thought it would make more of an impact. I succeeded!!! At least I think I did!!! I wanted to do this to emphasize the monumental size of the mountain. To me, this awesome peak represents life; specifically, the Christian one. We all start at the base with whatever spirituality God has blessed us with and start on our journey to the highest pinnacle we can reach in this life. But, how do we get there? The following passage from the book of 2nd Peter will show us the way...
WEB: II Peter Chapter 1
[1] Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who have obtained a like precious faith with us in the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: [2] Grace to you and peace be multiplied in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, [3] seeing that his divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and virtue; [4] by which he has granted to us his precious and exceedingly great promises; that through these you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust. [5] Yes, and for this very cause adding on your part all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence; and in moral excellence, knowledge; [6] and in knowledge, self-control; and in self-control patience; and in patience godliness; [7] and in godliness brotherly affection; and in brotherly affection, love. [8] For if these things are yours and abound, they make you to be not idle nor unfruitful to the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] For he who lacks these things is blind, seeing only what is near, having forgotten the cleansing from his old sins. [10] Therefore, brothers, be more diligent to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never stumble. [11] For thus you will be richly supplied with the entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The Christian life is a wonderful one, with fellow Christians who actually care about you; who want the best for you!!! Find that outside of Christ... you just can't! We love each other, care for each other and help each other!!! Christianity brings people together who otherwise would never, ever mingle. Its that diversity of culture and the love of God that makes the difference. And WE CHANGE. How? By adding the highlighted characteristics that Peter mentions in this verse; that's how!!! As we climb our own mountain of spirituality, we add more and more of Peter's list to our everyday life. Just keep doing these things; never stop, never!!! Keep looking up to God for help and encourage our brethren to do the same!!! What a wonderful journey.... and the view... heavenly!!!!