Today, we commemorate St. James of Nisibis, one of the most cherished saints in the Armenian Church. He is known for his divine vision on Mount Ararat. The story goes that while he was preaching near Nisibis, he encountered people who doubted the story of Noah’s Ark. Instead of being discouraged, St. James made a bold decision. He set out on a journey to Mount Ararat, determined to find evidence of the ark.
During his climb, he grew tired and paused to rest. But each time he got up to continue, he found himself right back where he started. Have you ever felt that way in life? Like no matter how hard you try, you’re not making progress? How frustrating that must have been! He could have said, “Maybe this isn’t for me,” or “I’ve done enough.”
But St. James didn’t give up. He didn’t let his circumstances define his faith. He kept climbing, kept believing. And then, when St. James least expected it, God showed up in a miraculous way. One night, as he rested from his climb, an angel appeared to him in a dream. The angel handed him a piece of wood from the Ark itself—a confirmation that his faith and perseverance were not in vain.
This story reflects our own spiritual journey. How often do we feel like St. James, facing challenges, growing tired, wondering if our efforts are making a difference? But when we’ve done all we can, and like St. James, when we keep our eyes on God, He will show up. It might not be the way we expect, but it will always be what we need.
The Bible says in 2 Chronicles 15:7, “But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.” God sees your effort. He knows the challenges you’re facing. And if you stay faithful, He will reward you at just the right time.
Friends, whatever mountain you’re climbing in this life, climb with faith, with perseverance, and with the assurance that God is with you. You may feel tired but don’t give up. You may feel stuck, but God’s help is closer than you realize. And when you reach your reward, whether here on earth or in eternity, you’ll look back and say, “It was worth every step.”
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