Here’s a good story that has made the rounds. Literally, I heard it from a preacher who heard it from a preacher who said he read it in a book somewhere. Such is the life of a sermon illustration. Here’s my spin.
group of amateur climbers hired a guide to lead them to the top of the Matterhorn.
One climber in particular had visions of grandeur about this venture, in which he would be photographed at the mountain’s peak, poised triumphantly, raising a glass of champagne, and feasting on caviar.
The guide warned the group that it would be a tough climb, and encouraged them each to bring only the essentials.
For this climber, the essentials included his camera, a tripod, a few special lenses, extra rolls of film, plus bottles of champagne, flutes for the team, and, of course, a big jar of caviar.
As the group climbed their way to the top, this particular climber became bogged down and overcome with exhaustion. The guide told him that if he wants to make it to the top, he must empty his backpack and leave the contents behind.
He couldn’t bring himself to do it. Instead, he made a strategic choice — not to continue the climb, but to stay right where he was and enjoy his caviar and champagne all alone.
There he stayed while the group journeyed on. He was still there when the group returned.
They told him about all he had missed, and how glorious it was. And they told him that the champagne and caviar would have added nothing to the experience.
There comes a time when we each have to make a choice. If we want to reach the top of the mountain, we must be willing to leave our trinkets behind.
Are the trinkets that could hold you back?
But he was deeply dismayed by these words, and he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property. (Mark 10:22)
