“WHO MAY CLIMB THE MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD?” Psalm 24:3

When we think about a mountain, we often picture a vast, intimidating structure stretching towards the sky, its peak shrouded in clouds, majestic and unreachable. This image isn’t just a physical challenge but a spiritual metaphor for our journey towards God. How often have we looked at the challenges that tower over us like mountains and wondered, “How can I ever overcome this? How can I reach the top?”

The idea of ascending to the holiness of God can seem daunting. How can we, with our imperfections and daily struggles, ever hope to reach o such spiritual heights? This is where the beautiful truth of the Gospel shines forth in our lives. You see, we do not climb this mountain alone.

Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, has not only climbed the mountain but has also become our guide and our path to the Father. Remember the mountains in Jesus’ life—the Beatitudes, where He preached the ways of blessedness; the Mount of Transfiguration, where He showed His glory; and finally, the Mount of Olives, from where He ascended to heaven, promising to prepare a place for us.

Each of these mountains teaches us something about our spiritual journey and about the nature of God’s invitation to us. We are called not just to admire the mountain from afar but to take the journey, step by step, with Jesus. He takes our hand and leads us through the ways of blessedness, transforms us, and enables us to ascend.

So, when you feel overwhelmed by the mountain before you, remember, you are not called to climb it by your own strength. You are invited to take the hand of Jesus, to trust in His power and grace. As we grow in our relationship with Him, as we allow Him to transform us, we find that the mountain is not so insurmountable. Because in truth, it is not we who climb, but Christ who lifts us up.

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
May 13, 2024