God, the Lord, is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer and makes me tread upon the heights.  (Habakkuk 3:19)

(Although I have been away while dealing with family illnesses,working my full time job, and completing book #1 in the “Everywhere…” book series, I hope you will return to enjoy this, and future excerpts from  Everywhere Hope to be released later this year.  Peace to all of you – Paula)

When I was visiting the small mountain village of Miyancoo in Khuzestan, Iran, I explored the local terrain with my husband’s nieces and nephews. I never saw a mountain deer, but I did see goats traipsing on the narrowest of ledges. It seemed an effortless trek for them. Was it an inborn ability, or were they guided as young kids on how to navigate the way? Mountain goats have hard outer hooves, allowing them to dig into ledges coupled with soft hoof pads that act like climbing shoes. Their bodies are physically equipped to help them traverse the trail.

Human beings are equipped too, with the innate longing to reach God. As St. Augustine said, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” Getting to the peak takes the right spiritual physique, courage to begin, willing trust and persistent effort. That’s what the saints did. They weren’t perfect, and it wasn’t an easy journey, but they had faith in a loving God. They found the way.

A few years ago, I heard in a homily that we either have faith or we don’t. It only takes faith the size of a mustard seed to get us going. We can learn, not only from the saints, but from those around us.

The question is – are we willing to reach out to step up? Are we humble enough to learn from others? Are we willing to immerse ourselves in the body of Christ? Do we have hope and faith in the ready, loving hand beckoning us from the next ridge? I believe God provides help on the rocky path in many ways – our job is to trust Him.

Hinds’ Feet Hopes

Sure and steady on the rocky climb,

Muscled limbs with ease and grace sublime

Maneuver crags and slides with practiced steps;

Ascending heights with certitude

I’ve not discovered yet.

 

Now worn the paths that lead to Heaven’s gate,

The trails marked well by saints who’ve gone before.

Free will is mine to journey or to wait

With seedling faith required – no less, no more.

 

Grant me the grace you gift to stately deer.

Make me, Your creature, tread just like the hind.

Your strength, pervade my soul and keep me near

That I may reach Your hand – Your glory find.