“For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your
freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another”
(Galatians 5:13).
In May I had the joy of visiting again a remote region of northern New Mexico.
This area is a National Park built around an ancient volcano called Capulin. A
roadway and parking area has been built near the summit of the old volcano (it
is 8,182 feet in elevation at its highest point). Then a paved, wide path
circles the top of the volcano (about a mile in length), and another paved path
goes down to the ancient core.
In the past, I loved to walk the rim! It is lined with fragrant Juniper and
Western Cedar trees, the air is crisp, and you can see forever around the 360
degree path. As you look, you hardly see any evidence of human activity, only
the footprints of God. The views are incredible! Though I enjoy this place a
lot, I did not think I would ever see it again.
To our blessing, Ron and Debbie Belote made this trip with us. The night before
we went to the park, they decided I needed to walk the rim path with them. I had
been walking a mile and a half in Fort Smith, so I figured I had the strength to
do it. They made a human sandwich with Ron in front (so I would have someone to
fall on if I fell), Debbie behind me (so she could try to catch me if I fell),
me with my “trusty cane” in the middle,” and Joyce with the camera to verify I
did it. (By the way, I did not even stumble.)
When I got back, “I” had done the impossible (and much enjoyed it), but only
because three people encouraged and helped me do the impossible. Three
Christians knew what the opportunity meant to me, and they made the “impossible”
quite “possible.”
The thought occurred to me immediately, “That is the core of Christian
existence!” There are many of life’s experiences that are “impossible” if faced
alone, but which become infinitely “possible” when you are encouraged and aided
by those who share and understand your faith and commitment.
The issue is never, “Am I weak and flawed?” We all are weak and flawed--never
more so than when we pretend to be “strong” and without defects. The issue is,
“Will I as a Christian help someone else with their weakness, and let them help
me with my weakness?”
Two observations I regard to be important. (1) I must never expect the truly
impossible of others. (2) It is as important for me to accept help as it is to
give help. (In fact, our help becomes more powerful when we also accept our
weakness.)
If you are Christian, you are not committed to do the impossible, but you are
committed to do what you are able to do. One of the most powerful things we all
have to give is encouragement. With encouragement, God’s help, and the help of
those who place their confidence in Christ, it is amazing what a person can do.
The combination of faith and encouragement is powerful in a human being! Each of
us always can supply the encouragement!
Link to other Writings of David Chadwell