Somewhere around 110 miles below our feet, rest earth’s tectonic plates.  When they shift, mountains may move, and several manifestations are possible.  Such events as an earthquake, a volcanic eruption, or tsunami can take place.  The upward movement of the Rocky and Himalayan mountains are evidence of a shift in tectonic plates. 

Jesus talked about moving mountains with our faith[1].   In my lifetime, I have not heard of anyone moving a physical mountain with their faith.  However, I have seen personal and metaphorical tectonic plates shift, and private mountains move. 

Consider with me, viewing the tectonic plates as a metaphor for deeply rooted non-life-giving patterns upon which you have built your life.  Such ideals as fear, anxiety, insufficiency, inadequacy, habits and beliefs that keep you in bondage.  We all have some area where God invites us to be free.  As we travel and grow in God, truth (which is the only way to freedom) contains the dynamism or energy to move a tectonic plate or two in one’s life.  When a couple of plates shift even a wee bit, guess what?  A mountain moves.  Maybe it is a mountain of pride, self-doubt, falsehood, envy.  Maybe a mountain of deep attachment to dogma, self-righteousness, or what others say about us.  Maybe a mountain of “stinking thinking.” Maybe it is a mountain that has blocked your view of God and God’s vast love. 

This is subtle inner work and work best done in the company of one another.  Spiritual directors live in this transitional, liminal space with seekers.  Consider finding one for your journey. One final bit of great news:  When tectonic plates shift, they don’t move back to their former position.


[1] Matthew 17:20 reads, “Because of your little faith. For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”