Good morning,
This week we will enjoy chapters 9-12 of Pilgrim’s Progress.
Chapter 10. The Hill Difficulty (SermonAudio.com, 4 minute video)
Chapter 10. The Hill Difficulty (YouTube, 4 minute video)
Christian continues his pilgrimage after encountering Formalist and Hypocrisy on the King’s highway. As he travels, he comes to a place where the road divides into three separate paths. The central path leads directly up a steep hill called Difficulty.
On either side of the hill are easier paths known as Danger and Destruction. Christian observes that the easier routes appear far more attractive than the steep ascent. Nevertheless, he remembers that the King’s highway leads over the hill itself. Determined to obey, he chooses the difficult path rather than the easier alternatives.
The climb proves exhausting and requires considerable effort. Halfway up the hill, Christian discovers a pleasant arbor provided for the refreshment of weary pilgrims. He sits down to rest and soon falls asleep. While sleeping, he loses valuable time that should have been spent progressing toward his destination. During his sleep, the scroll that had been given to him near the Cross slips from his possession.
Eventually Christian awakens and realizes that the day is far spent. He quickly resumes his journey and reaches the summit of the hill. There he meets two frightened pilgrims who are fleeing in the opposite direction. They report terrifying dangers ahead and urge Christian to turn back. Despite their warnings, Christian remains committed to continuing toward the Celestial City.
Shortly afterward, he discovers that his scroll is missing. Realizing the seriousness of the loss, he retraces his steps to search for it. After much sorrow and effort, he finds the scroll in the arbor, thanks God for His mercy, and resumes his journey with renewed vigilance.
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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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