Finding Perspective at 14,000 Feet

Recently on a trip to Colorado Springs for a friend’s wedding, Dr. Robbie Crouse (Associate Professor of Systematic Theology) took time out for an impressive climb, something he hasn’t attempted to do in the last twelve years. Beginning with a 3:00am wake up call and a two-and-a-half-hour drive to the trailhead, he and a friend began their class 3 hike on the west ridge of Pacific Peak. Taking in the majestic views of willow trees and the alpine tundra along the way, they summited at an elevation of 13,950 feet by midmorning. Dr. Crouse, who had recently been getting back into shape to return to climbing as he used to do with family and friends since his years in High School, described his climb as both challenging and a great adventure.

On his Facebook page, Dr. Crouse wrote in reflection of his experience,

“Being a husband, father, and teacher/minister are my main jobs, and it's great; I wouldn't trade it for the world. But sometimes it's hard in those things to feel like you are making progress or getting anywhere. The jobs are never done; you don't always have a view of the whole landscape, and there's not always milestones of where you've been and where you're going. That's why there's something about having a set, discernable goal and trying to rise to the challenge of meeting it. My climb of Pacific Peak and Atlantic Peak was a great way to get perspective on the things God is already calling me to do: overcoming difficulties in front of me and walking by faith on the path set before me. I pray He will bring me to the top and let me see the land all around.”

Dr. Crouse’s reflection from the summits of Pacific and Atlantic Peaks offers a helpful perspective in these uncertain times. While standing in the valley and gazing up mountains that seem like an impossible climb, getting to the top can feel unattainable. “Why do I feel stuck? What does Kingdom success look like? Where is God calling me now? How will the Lord get me there?” Only those who make the journey are able to stand in awe of the breathtaking views that bring unpolluted clarity, like that of the Colorado Rockies. Therefore, like every climb, it requires beginning at the trailhead and walking by faith one step at a time. 

"He makes my feet like the feet of a deer and causes me to stand on the mountain heights." (Psalm 18:33)