Lead

March 28, 2026

One of the top sites to visit in Florence, Italy is “the Duomo.” It’s a massive dome sitting on top of the Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore, which is located in the center of the city. On top of the dome, you can observe the panoramic view of the whole city of Firenze (Florence). It’s absolutely amazing to climb up there. The last time I went up there was with my brother and two cousins about 20 years ago, and I was excited to go up there again with my daughter. 

There are 463 steps to climb up to the Duomo, and the stairway is narrow. You have to check in your luggages and backpacks to go up there. When we were checking in the bags, the staff recommended that I take my water bottle with me because it would be a long climb. What I didn’t account for was that I was climbing up the stairs with my young daughter.

We started walking up the stairs, and for me it was no big deal, and I was walking up at a faster pace. Soon, I could hear Sebin slowing down because I was going too fast. I slowed down for her. Behind us was a young mother with a 2-year old son. Clearly, I knew it would take a longer time for her. Half the way, she carried him up the stairs. When we finally arrived at the top, we knew it was worth the climb, the view was amazing. The pictures and the videos I took didn’t do any justice to it.

I wonder if that is what God did for us. Apparently, God would patiently wait for us to walk with us. Isaiah 40:11 writes, “He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those who are with young.” The journey we are on is not an easy one. Our Father in heaven is willing to slow down for us, and even carry us in our difficulties and trials. May we put our faith in Him today and let Him guide and lead us.