“Look at that cloud over the valley!” We were driving through the foothills of the Appalachians and our highway was built above that valley which, at that moment, had a rather large and puffy cloud filling it. I started thinking about the spiritual metaphors of having a “cloud” in a “valley.” Now, mind you, I have always lived in flatter places – neither mountains nor valleys – so if the metaphor breaks down in light of your real-life experience, put on your imagination and grace space (or “grain of salt,” as the case may be) and work with me. 🙂
Mountains – up away from people, farther to get to for groceries, utilities, etc., more likely to have snow, privacy, beautiful view, more energy to do anything
Valley – more people, cheaper to live there, possibility of flooding, surrounded by mountains/maybe not much of a view/giant hug, flat enough to grow food or have wars
First thought: Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,[a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me. (NIV)
“A voice of one calling:
“In the wilderness prepare
the way for the Lord[a];
make straight in the desert
a highway for our God.[b]
4 Every valley shall be raised up,
every mountain and hill made low;
the rough ground shall become level,
the rugged places a plain.
5 And the glory of the Lord will be revealed,
and all people will see it together.
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”” (Isaiah40:3-5 NIV)
“When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it.
2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. 3 So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. ” (John 18:1-3 NIV) – Valleys as significant places
Much Afraid
Every valley will be exalted = Messiah