Obstacles on/in the way…
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters. Epictetus
Have you ever planned to do something, but had obstacle after obstacle appear as you tried to move forward. Sometimes those are minor little annoyances, but sometimes obstacles can be major setbacks. There are even times when so many impediments come up that you even question if you should abandon the goal and move in a different direction.
Hiking in the Sierras, I come across many obstacles on trails. In early spring or late fall, there might be ice on the trail or even treacherous snow banks across the trail. As water melts in the spring, some trails end up being streams while others have temporary ponds across them. And always, there are inevitably logs across paths from treefall. Finally, more permanent trail barriers include navigating around or over huge boulders or ascending steep rock stairs where the steps are predictably much higher than work well for my short legs!
Jesus understands our struggles with obstacles in life (and on the trails) as he worked through many difficult challenges in ministry and his life. From religious and political opposition to family and community skepticism. He also broke cultural and social taboos by reaching out to those of other cultures or those who were frowned upon by society. From the very beginning, Satan tempted him, though Jesus remained sinless. He and his teachings were often misunderstood by his disciples and followers. Finally, the human side of him meant feeling emotions, particularly in the garden of Gethesemane where he prayed to the point of sweating blood…at the thought of the coming events culminating in the crucifixion. Yes, Jesus can empathize with us when we encounter obstacles and extremely difficult challenges in life.
In all things, though, we are to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Whether we are working through a health challenge, a career path, relationship issues, or simply a tough hike on a trail, it’s all part of our spiritual growth. If we are indeed sure that our path is God’s will for us, then we move forward, no matter how difficult the challenge ahead. We keep our focus on God’s strength and wisdom, not our own, and we move ahead, even if it’s one rocky step at a time…
