While most Canadian “snowbirds” go south for their winter vacation, my wife and I headed to Cold Lake, Alberta (go figure). Actually, we have a good reason to be drawn to the west — our grandkids (and their parents, of course).
After a refreshing visit to Cold Lake (as in minus 40 C due to wind chill), we headed to more southern climes. That would be balmy Calgary (only minus 30 C) where the other grandkids live.
One day, we were treated to a visit to the Calgary Tower smack dab in the city’s core. Years ago, it was called the “Humble Tower” (after the oil company) and it dominated the skyline. Today, it’s surrounded by taller buildings but still stands impressively with its red dome. During the Calgary Winter Olympics in 1988, they called it “the world’s tallest Olympic torch.”
The glass floor
So, up we went 600-plus feet and emerged from the elevator to an inspiring few of the city and beyond. As you walk around the perimeter, you can read about the various buildings below including the “Saddledome” where the NHL Flames play. During the Calgary Stampede they actually take a horse to the top to surprise visitors. We were blessed with a clear day and could see in the distant west the majestic chain of the mountains stretching north to south.
While the Rockies are the most impressive sight, the most interesting feature for me is the glass floor. This was added in 2005 on the north side and consists (thankfully) of eighteen layers of sturdy, glass panels. Apparently, it can hold the weight of two rhinos (although I doubt they have ever tested it).
For a while, I just watched (from a distance) as people approached the glass floor. Looking straight down to the street below your feet is unnerving for most. Your mind tells you it is completely safe. You see people walking on it. You read the stats of how it was built. And you remind yourself that in spite of your mild weight gain, you are nowhere near the weight of two rhinos!
But for many, something unconscious fills you with trepidation and tells you this is not natural or safe. Confession time: my three Calgarian grandchildren were braver than me. After a few moments of checking it out, they proceeded to walk on the glass floor. I volunteered to take some photos (from a distance). I managed to place one foot on it while clutching a nearby steel beam (just in case). I must admit it felt rather good… when we left.
The faith lesson
As I later reflected on this “enjoyable” experience, I could see an illustration of an important spiritual truth. It comes in the form of a question —where is the focus of your faith? If it’s downward, you will be plagued by doubt, uncertainty and fear. People who try to build their lives and happiness primarily on earthly things (other people, success, economics, politics, possessions) will spend their lives pursuing an elusive goal.
However, sincere believers who keep their gaze upward on God and the eternal things of God will find both purpose and happiness in their lives. Jesus compared it to building a house upon a rock which can withstand the storms of life (see Matthew 7:24-25). The apostle Paul said the same: “…set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:1-2)
The bottom line is this — earthly things come to an end. They return to the earth. But heavenly things last forever and those who seek them end up in heaven. Where is your focus?
Rob Weatherby is a retired pastor.
