Climbing the Pinnacle of Mt Haleakala

There is an East Maui Volcano named Haleakala, which covers more than 75% of the island. The highest point of Haleakala stands 10,023 feet above sea level. From the summit, one can look down into a depression close to 12 miles across and 3.2 miles wide. It is 2,600 feet deep. Interestingly, the Volcano is barren, with little vegetation, and covered in lava rocks. Every now and then, there is a spiky, shiny plant like the one below. The landscape is rugged but a different kind of beautiful.

Terry and I drove up the mountain and then climbed the last few steps. Once at the summit, it was breathtaking! The quiet surrounded us, the cool air enveloped us, and the majestic view stole my breath. I froze in time, just soaking it in. A fitting thought was “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” - Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

This verse invites us to embrace the stillness found in nature, as I did at the summit of Haleakala. In those quiet moments, surrounded by the volcano's majestic beauty, I sensed not just awe, but the nearness of Christ Himself. I feel like the hush of creation became a sanctuary—a place where I can hear the voice of Jesus above the noise of daily life.

Listen for the voice of Jesus above the noise of daily life.

The barren summit, stripped of distractions, mirrors the spiritual journey of drawing closer to Christ: letting go of worldly concerns to behold His glory. In the peace of that moment, I am reminded how God reveals Himself through His creation, and how the Holy Spirit gently speaks to hearts when we are still and attentive. Even in the midst of life’s chaos, Jesus offers us a supernatural peace, inviting us to rest in His presence and trust in His sovereignty.

If your life feels barren today, know that God gently speaks in the quiet moments. He reveals Himself as we are still and worship Him. He speaks to us when we seek him with an attentive and open spirit. Friend, God is with you in your barren places. I invite you to pause, in every season, to hear His voice.

God is with you in the barren.

Dear Lord,

In this journey of life, remind me that each step is a chance to walk more closely with You. When I face steep climbs and barren places, help me to remember that You walk beside me. May my heart be still before You, listening for Your voice and seeking Your will above all else. Guide me, Lord, to the summit of my calling—where I may glorify You and rest in Your peace. In Jesus’ holy name, Amen.