The Pillars of Hercules stood on either side of the Strait of Gibraltar. Many have written about the famous inscription on the pillars: “Ne Plus Ultra.” This traffic sign was apparently a warning to sailors not to travel beyond the edge of the known world.
The phrase in popular literature is used to describe an achievement or acquisition of which there is “no more beyond.”
It preceded the Maslow Hierarchy peak achievement of self-actualization.
Many writers and self-help gurus want to help us arrive at a destination of which nothing else could surpass.
Perhaps Peter, James and John’s transfiguration trip came close to the ultimate destination. It’s easy to identify with their reluctance to return down the mountain to all that awaited them.
But we know their best days were yet to come.
As I write today among pillars of grandchildren and nieces around me, I know the Lord has so much more for us. While I don’t want my time of rest to end, I know there is so much more which lies beyond.
“And now O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in You” (Ps. 39:7).
