This past weekend we went on a short hiking excursion, and once again witnessed the awesome beauty and majesty of the Rocky Mountain landscape.  Although this wasn't a backpacking trip this time, and only lasted two days, we still had to do the hard work of ascending the trails and scrambling up the steep slope.  It was challenging - requiring some endurance, strength, determination, and hope!  Hope for what we would view at the top.  Expectancy of a beautiful panoramic scene.  Anticipation for a "mountaintop experience".  All of which we were able to enjoy because we had a goal in mind, a purpose for our efforts and a belief that what we were doing was worth it for the reward at the end.  It sounds a bit like our spiritual walk.  We all face obstacles, difficult times, challenging journeys...but when we have faith that God is with us, will give us the strength we need to get through, and believe in His faithfulness and the promises He has made....we keep our eternal destination in focus.  We can know for certain that the "view" will be so worth the journey.  It will exceed every expectation we have, because God is the giver of every good gift, and He has an amazing future prepared for His people.  1 Corinthians 2:9; Ephesians 3:20  He is the maker of the mountains, and He alone knows how awe-inspiring everything looks from there!!  Keep pressing on!