The Incline (Part 4)

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The funniest thing happens when you climb with total strangers for hours. Together you share in this mutual suffering and suddenly, you aren't strangers anymore. You talk about what junk food you are going to eat when you conquer the mountain. You ensure your fellow hiking buddy is not going to pass out when they flop down in the coveted patch of shade. And you find yourself encouraging one another, "You are almost there. You'll make it."
Why? Because you all relate. You know their legs are shaking -- because yours are. You know their lungs are burning -- because yours are on fire. You know their head hurts and their feet are tired and they would prefer to be done. Have you ever wonder if some of our spiritual lives were just harder and more public if we would be better equipped to be Christ's Church the way He intended? Encouraging. Comforting. Walking along side. Challenging. Carrying and caring.
Just a wonder.