“. . .that you be united in the same mind . . .”
1 Corinthians 1:10
A few weekends ago, I had the opportunity to hike my first “14-er” in Colorado. The journey of that day was reminiscent of my journey in life: full of anticipation, moments of overwhelming worship and joy, and intense moments of barely being able to breathe and wondering if I could take another step.
As I trekked alone, I periodically came across other hikers, some of whom were traversing up the mountain, and others who were coming back down from the summit. For those on the return trip, they would make it a point to say hello and offer some encouragement. Words like, “keep going, it’s worth it,” or “it gets slippery and windy just over that ridge,” or “you’re doing great,” all resonated their way to my heart. It dawned on me: all of us on that mountain had the same goal, the same mindset.
Making it to the top bound each and every one of us.
Before long, I was at the top celebrating with perfect strangers.
As Christ-followers, we share a common purpose that transcends circumstances and people. Paul appealed for us to adopt the notion of same mindedness. Literally sticking with others even when it’s hard or they let you down. It’s choosing no matter what to gracefully and truthfully (in that order) commit to each other. Just like those strangers who encouraged me to keep going and take the next step no matter how tired I felt, we are called to encourage one another to keep going, that it’s worth the journey, and that we are here through it all for each other.
Who are you committed to journeying with regardless of the circumstances?