Climbing the mountain was more difficult than I recalled. Although it was daybreak, sweat poured down my face and back because of the high temperatures. Even my heart was beating overtime. I thought that this assent was surely more strenuous than I remembered since my last trek nearly 20 years ago.
However, I was strangely at peace. The small village of Medjugorje does that, you know. Medjugorje in Bosnia-Hercegovnia is the site of daily reported apparitions of Our Lady since 1981. She comes urging all to pray for peace. I came to this village to relieve my hardened and burdened heart. Anxieties and heartache often caused many sleepless nights at home. It was my sincere prayer that I could leave all of that at the foot of the cross atop Mt. Krizevac.
Meditating at every station along the Way of the Cross proved a relief from my labored climb. I was so thankful for the help and prayers of my fellow pilgrims. God called just the right people for this pilgrimage. An added bonus was going with my mother, Joan, who was also one of our group’s leaders, and my mother-in-law, Pauline.
After I reached the twelfth station, Jesus Dies on the Cross, the climb became easier. It was as if Jesus’ death made it easier for us to get to the top (heaven).
Navigating the huge jagged rocks, boulders and trees, surprisingly, caused me no fear, only peace. I didn’t look behind me, or ahead of me.
I thought, “Why am I not afraid of this treacherous climb?” It was then that I felt the Lord nudge me; my “climb” in life would be easier if I would just let Him take the reins.
At home, I am anxious, tired, worried about daily dilemmas. I look at the past (behind me) or worry about the future. I waste much time and energy worrying about two periods: the past and the future. I rarely trust God and live in the present!
BINGO! My trek on this holy mountain was made easier because I did not concern myself with the dangers of the climb behind me (the past), or the fear of the steep assent ahead of me (the future). I kept my eyes on my present spot and continued on!
I’m sure all of you have felt this way. I learned a vital lesson that day. We can have peace of heart when we pray and trust in God, knowing He will guide our future and forgive our past. Nothing can be more beautiful!
Copyright 2014, Mary Mitchell
Mary Mitchell
Mary Mitchell, from Chicago, is a devout Catholic who likes to mix the divine truth with humor. She thinks it's the only way we can get through this life! Mary is the mother of three and has been married to her husband, Philip, more than 20 years. She has attempted to live the vows as a Secular Franciscan for about 20 years, but has a long way to go.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.