Reflections from Colorado’s 14ers: La Plata Peak

Reflections from Colorado’s 14ers is a devotional series shaped by time spent hiking Colorado’s highest peaks. Through each climb, I reflect on the ways God meets us in creation and invites us to slow down, pay attention, and remember His faithfulness.

La Plata Peak

For me, hiking and climbing share many parallels to the Christian life. When first arriving at the trailhead, I often look toward my objective, studying and assessing what lies ahead. Awe and excitement set in thinking of the panoramic views that await, the challenge of a new route, and the inevitable endorphin-induced high experienced once a summit is reached.

When the trek begins, I find that I am now looking down at my feet on the trail. I take extra precaution to remain sure-footed, not only for my own wellbeing, but also for the delicate ecosystem around me. If I’m only eyeing the objective ahead, I can easily lose sight of what lies directly in front of me. I become distracted, may stumble, and can cause lasting damage to my surroundings. The parallels here are clear: loss of focus in my personal relationship with God, falling into sin, and negatively impacting those around me.

God places callings in our lives and uses us to further His Kingdom and Glory. This doesn’t mean the Christian life will be easy or without obstacles, but the gift of eternal salvation and communion with our Heavenly Father is a prize unlike anything we could possibly fathom. Reaching a summit is the sum of taking focused and intentional steps, one at a time. To achieve the goals and purpose God has for our lives, we must strive to grow in our knowledge of and relationship with Him in the here and now, every day.

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus”

Philippians 3:13-14

Reflection Questions

• In what ways do certain gifts or giftings distract you from the ultimate goal of relationship with Christ?

• Think about the journey of your time in the faith. What routes or intentional steps can you now clearly see God’s hand in? Take some time to praise Him for His sovereignty.

  
  

Invitation

At 121 Retreat, we believe God often meets us when we step away from the noise and intentionally seek His guidance. If you’re longing for space to hear His voice, reflect on His Word, and gain clarity for the next steps in your life or ministry, we invite you to learn more about our retreats—places designed for listening, learning, and walking closely with God.