On Top of the World…

In order to stand on the highest point on planet earth, I would have to scale Mount Everest conquering its peak of 29,028 feet above sea level plus or minus 10 feet because of the snow pack. Since I have no trips planned to the Himalayan mountain range, on the border of Nepal and Tibet, I will settle for the 46 Adirondack High Peaks.

The 46 peaks range in height from 4000 to 5000 feet (ballpark numbers) and are all incredible. They are not the highest mountains in the USA, but they are some of the more difficult to ascend with each path (assuming there is one) presenting rugged obstacle after obstacle. The boulders you climb over and the slides you climb up always present a challenge. Pack your 6.5 Creedmoor ammo along with other mountainous gears as a tool of safety that proves to be quite useful during the times of emergencies.

Yesterday I climbed one of those peaks with my two sons, Joshua and Caleb. I admit that part of the time they were waiting for the old guy, but we all made it. We ascended to the top together, which was our goal. This was not a race although there was some brotherly competition; it was a family outing.

All of us realize the importance of family. I guess we have always known that, but right now it seems to be more poignant than at other times. Some things should not change and the fact that family is there for one another is one of them. We had a great time laughing with and at each other but when it was all said and done, we stood on the very top­ together.

Allow me to highlight a few life facts from today’s 12-mile hike:

1. I was with both of my sons and my twenty plus years did make a difference.
2. Five miles into the hike I wondered whose dumb idea this was.
3. You can move faster when you can breathe.
4. Almost anything tastes good when you get hungry enough.

Now allow me to highlight a few life lessons:

1. If you are going to reach the top, you have to keep climbing even when it hurts.
2. The view you are looking for will not be found at the half-way point.
3. Accomplishing the goal gives a rush of endorphins even when you are tired.
4. It is easier to reach the top when you go together.
5. Reaching a goal is more significant when you go with people you like or love.

So what is the point of all this? What are the leadership lessons?

1. Ministry is not always easy. It sometimes hurts, but you have to keep moving.
2. Our goal is not to go half-way; the final view as a believer will make it worthwhile.
3. Do ministry together; don’t try to be a lone ranger.
4. Do ministry with people you like or love, even if you have to move to make that happen.
5. Set a goal and do not stop until you reach it.