The View from the Summit

Today we read a prayer from the apostle Paul in his letter to believers in Rome. Before this point, Paul has led them through a long theological journey, mapping out how God has revealed his salvation. But here, as he pauses to pray, it’s as if he has reached his destination – and it takes his breath away.

Think of an ever ascending mountain trail: there is much to see along the way, but nothing can compare with the view from the top.

Swiss theologian F. L. Godet describes it in this way: “Like a traveler who has reached the summit of an Alpine ascent, the apostle turns and contemplates. Depths are at his feet; but waves of light illumine them, and there spreads all around an immense horizon which his eye commands."

What is the view from the summit? A picture of an incredible God who has worked in time and history through Jesus Christ that we might live forever in relationship with him. Nothing compares with him. No one taught him how to do it. And we can offer him nothing in return, because everything comes through him.

Have you ever glanced backward, breathless after a long journey, to find that God has been working all along?

Looking back at what God has done to save us is awe-inspiring!

Father in heaven, I look in wonder at what you have done to accomplish our salvation. Who can compare with you? I want to grow in wonder as I consider your plan and my place in it. Amen.

Throughout This Day: Consider a recent leg of your journey. As you look back, where do you see evidence of God working that you might know him?