Roped together for safety and support

 

 

A few years ago, I had the chance to join a fine group of friends to climb Mt. Rainier, the highest mountain in the state of Washingtom at 14,411'. Though the mountain is considered an active volcano, its summit is covered by 26 major glaciers and extensive permanent snowfields. So climbing requires mountaineering skills and significant preparation.

Crossing or climbing glaciers and snowfields always presents risks, especially on steep mountains. The conditions of the snow can change and shift. Glaciers by definition are bodies of dense ice that move and flow under their own weight, often creating crevasses (deep fractures or cracks) and other dangers.

Experienced climbers in these conditions will always travel as a group, as a team, and will wear harnesses that enable them to be connected to each other by a long strong rope. If one of the climbers slips or falls (including falling into a hidden crevasse), the others in his ropeline are trained to anchor themselves and help the one in trouble to return to safety. It's a wise precaution, one you hope never to need to use; but if an occasion does arise, it's crucial to know what to do and to act immediately.

It's a fascinating feeling to be part of a "rope team" and know that at any minute, your very life and survival could depend on the others in your group. And then to realize that you might be called on to rescue one of them! You learn to trust and respect each other in a powerful way.

Most of us don't spend much time traversing glaciers. But we do traverse other challenges in life. In fact, all of life is a challenge to some degree, and there are hidden crevasses of danger or trial that can open up at almost any point. Having a "rope team" of support is critical. These people can be part of our team in a variety of ways. Some might be family members, who are close and therefore more aware of our challenges and can support and influence us daily. Some might be more distant but still fill a role as one deeply trusted and respected, and can sustain us and even rescue us through their friendship, love, and wisdom. Some on our "rope team" may not even know us personally, but their influence and insight can still provide great strength and security in times of danger and need.

A similar concept to being roped together is the scriptural idea of being yoked; and clearly for Christians the invitation to join with Him in being yoked together (Matt 11:28-30) provides the ultimate sense of rescue and security.

I #GiveThanks for the concept of supporting friends and associates, and count myself greatly blessed to have a personal "rope team" in my life on whom I can depend for my safety and security in profound ways.