Faith That Climbs Mountains

The relic of Noah’s Ark in the Cathedral Museum of Holy Etchmiadzin

Today, we commemorate St. James of Nisibis, one of the most cherished saints in the Armenian Church. He is known for his divine vision on Mount Ararat. The story goes that while he was preaching near Nisibis, he encountered people who doubted the story of Noah’s Ark. Instead of being discouraged, St. James made a bold decision. He set out on a journey to Mount Ararat, determined to find evidence of the ark.

During his climb, he grew tired and stopped to rest. But each time he got up to continue, he found himself right back where he started. Have you ever felt that way in life? Like, no matter how hard you try, you’re not making progress? How frustrating that must have been! He could have said, “Maybe this isn’t for me,” or “I’ve done enough.”

But St. James didn’t give up. He kept climbing, kept believing. And then, when he least expected it, God showed up in a miraculous way. One night, as he rested from his climb, an angel appeared to him in a dream and handed him a piece of wood from the Ark. When St. James woke, he found that same piece of wood under his head—a gentle yet powerful sign that God had seen his faith and perseverance.

That holy relic is preserved today at the Cathedral Museum of Holy Etchmiadzin.

This story reflects our own spiritual journey. How often do we feel like St. James, facing challenges, growing tired, wondering if our efforts are making a difference? But when we’ve done all we can, and like St. James, when we keep our eyes on God, He will show up. It might not be the way we expect, but it will always be what we need.

The Holy Scripture says, “But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded” (2 Chronicles 15:7). God sees your effort. He knows the challenges you’re facing. Remain faithful, and He will bring the reward at the right time.

Friends, whatever mountain you’re climbing in this life, climb with faith, with perseverance, trusting that God is with you. You may grow weary or feel stuck, but His help is nearer than you think. And when the reward comes, whether here on earth or in eternity, you’ll look back and say, “It was worth every step.”