GREAT THINGS ENTERPRISE
CLAUDE BLACK
Mark 11:23
Moving Mountains
Our oldest son, Erick, was driving on a family trip to California while I dozed in the back seat. “Dad,” he said, “I think something’s wrong with the car.” The car was slowing down even as he pressed the accelerator. Of course, those words got my attention.
On that stretch of highway, the slant of the road gradually increased as it snaked its way up the side of the Rocky Mountains. The car labored to maintain speed as it made its way up the side of the mountain.
There are metaphorical mountains in life—challenges that differ in intensity. Sometimes, these challenges rise gradually, allowing one to become acclimated to the climb. Other times, the increase is sudden and steep, making the journey overwhelming and causing one to give up.
In Jesus’ teaching about the withered fig tree, he told the disciples, “Truly I say to you that whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and be thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come about, it will be for him.” (Mark 11:23)
Some writers suggest that Jesus was referring to the Mount of Olives, which was nearby; others to the Temple Mount, which they were heading towards. Still others think Jesus referred to a metaphorical mountain—like the ones we encounter in everyday life. The last interpretation makes the most sense. So, what mountain are you facing today? Remember Jesus’ words.
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