HIGHER GROUND

…this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14 (KJV)

I attended Moses’ graduation from Uganda Christian University in Mokono where he was President of the Student Council, President of his class, and Outstanding Male Student. When he came to the States for further study, we stayed in touch by phone, and then Moses returned to Uganda for a time of fruitful ministry.

A few years later, I was getting ready to make a visit to Uganda and received a message that Moses, after his evening prayer time, had an aneurism and quietly entered God’s presence. I got to the village in time for the burial service.

Members of Parliament stood to remember Moses’ contributions to the community and nation; a former teacher spoke; and the Archbishop delivered a powerful message. Then Moses’ father stood. The old retired bishop thanked everyone for coming and was the soul of grace. Then he began to sing, a capella, in his local tongue. I recognized the tune from childhood:

I’m pressing on the upward way
New heights I’m gaining every day
Still praying as I’m onward bound
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

Chorus:

Lord, lift me up and let me stand
By faith on heaven’s table land
A higher plane than I have found
Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.

That precious father went on to sing every verse, a prayer to his Father who had never forsaken or disappointed him. He had lived his life daily abiding in God, trusting him for every need. When the ultimate test came, by faith he was able to turn his mourning into praise.

Father, we want to be like this dear man. We want to know you intimately, walk with you consistently, and love you deeply so that in our times of severe testing, you are glorified in us. In the name of your dear Son. Amen.