Black Diamonds

The large snowflakes fell like a curtain after a stage performance. My breath fogged up my goggles. I took off my glove and wiped away the snow, cleared my lens and the view was spectacular. The mountain valley spread out below me.  The snow covered trees lined the winding slope as I stood at the crest of the mountain uncertain of my next move. I looked at the sign in front of me with black diamonds and an arrow pointing forward, below it a blue square with an arrow pointing to the right. I nervously stomped the building snow off my skis pondering my next move. After a deep breath I pushed off with my poles and my decision was made.

When we set out to accomplish anything of personal growth in life, work and relationships there needs to be a certain amount of confidence. For me to learn how to ski in the pristine slopes of the Rocky Mountains in Utah and Colorado is a lesson on confidence. I needed instruction and experience to develop a moderate amount of confidence to have fun and enjoy this sport. As I began to trust in my skill and ability my confidence grew which enabled me to tackle more difficult runs. However, there were times after a hard fall, a lost ski, and face full of snow that my confidence began to wane. I would look down the steep slope checkered with moguls and wish I was in the lodge next to the blazing fire. One time I even took off my skis and slid down the rest of the slope on my rear. As a young man I didn’t impress any of the snow bunnies gliding past me.

As a pastor I find there are times when my confidence is full and I feel like I can tackle any challenge ahead. However, there are moments and seasons when my confidence begins to wane. I wonder if my preaching is impacting, my leadership inspiring, and my counsel encouraging. As I stand at the precipice of a decision, a change of direction, or even what lies ahead in the week, I nervously ponder my next move. Sometimes I linger there for quite awhile in uncertainty and doubt. I doubt my ability, skill and decision making. I reflect upon my past failures and weaknesses where I felt embarrassed, frustrated and inadequate. I usually have a choice: to risk going forward or take an easier path.

My heart pounded in my chest, my whole body strained and snow flew from each tight turn as I picked up exhilarating speed down the black diamond run. My confidence soared.

For you my friends and fellow Shepherds, be encouraged at whatever level your confidence may be at today. It’s a new day, and God hasn’t lost confidence in you as his vessel for love and truth to his people. You have the fullness of skill, creativity, wisdom and ability for you have an awesome personal ski instructor who is right there beside you through each turn, slope and decision of your week. May you enjoy your exhilarating run!