I Look to the Mountains

Jul 24

“I raise my eyes toward the mountains. From whence shall come my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” - Psalm 121: 1-2

Mountains are frequently mentioned in the Bible. One biblical scholar says that mountains and hills are mentioned 500 times. Mountains are certainly part of the landscape of the Middle East, but they also contain great symbolism. Mountains and hills in biblical times literally helped the people feel closer to God. The ancient world believed that God dwelled in the heavens (the sky) and a mountain was an obvious way to reach the Lord. Even in the New Testament, Jesus is transfigured on a mountaintop and reminds us that He is divine.

A statue of St. Francis de Sales in Thorens, France

During the last two weeks, I have been in Annecy, France for the General Chapter of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. The Chapter is an international meeting of Oblates where we take time to discuss the needs of our congregation, address issues concerning the universal church, and spend time enjoying the company of our confreres from around the world. We also get to enjoy the beautiful town of Annecy – the home of Francis de Sales when he was Bishop of nearby Geneva. Because of the political implications of the Protestant Reformation, Bishop Francis was never permitted into the city of Geneva. However, being banned from one town revealed the beauty of another to Francis and the members of his diocese. Annecy was (and is) a little town nestled in the heart of the French Alps, along the shores of Lake Annecy. The town sits below the towering and snowcapped Annecy Mountains.

As the Oblates drove into Annecy (and the whole Chablais region), from the city of Geneva, we were all impressed by the mountains. They are breathtaking. They draw us closer to God because they remind us of the beauty and wonder of creation. They are part of the miracle that is the natural world. My walks through Annecy helped me realize why St. Francis de Sales used the images of nature to explain the love and closeness of God.

During these days of summer vacation and warm weather, we are invited to look around and see the Lord who made heaven and earth. Whether you can vacation in the mountains or in other places of God’s wonderful world, may we take some time today to appreciate His presence, His help, and His closeness in all creation.