On The Edge
A trip out west was calling us, so after several weeks of planning and preparations, Paul and the kids and I arrived at the Charlotte Douglas airport ready for our early morning flight to Phoenix. As first-time fliers, all three of our children wanted a window seat and took turns watching as the land became smaller and smaller while we rose higher and higher.
Upon arrival, we rented an SUV and began our tri-state trek through Arizona, Nevada, and Utah, hiking and exploring along the way. So many new sights to see and interesting terrain to cover! Breathtakingly beautiful scenery surrounded us as the landscape changed from red clay desert to green lush mountains and back again. High rock formations and deep valleys shared space in this part of the country and in no time, the wondrous Grand Canyon was before us.
From the safety of the Grand Canyon Lodge, I stared out into the vastness of the north rim, and was in awe of the majesty of God: His creation was beautiful beyond description and His supreme power swept over me like a wave.
But once we ventured outside to the patio, fear began to take hold of my heart. Despite being hemmed in by a stone wall, trepidation held me back from getting close to the edge. Each step raised another spike in my panic meter. 8,000 feet in elevation is HIGH!
Based on this reaction, I’m not sure why I agreed to join my family on the Bright Angel Point Trail. A description of this hike from the National Parks Service website states: “This narrow, paved path provides spectacular views, although it drops off dramatically on both sides in some places, and certain sections are surprisingly steep.” Yes, that was putting it mildly. As I walked, I could barely look up, focusing instead on my feet and the narrowness of the path. I was missing the beauty of the surroundings because I was terrified of becoming dizzy and tripping. Worse than that, all I could think about was the very real possibility of my children carelessly losing their footing and falling to their deaths.
At about midpoint on the trail, with my daughter’s hand clenched tightly in mine, I stopped and admitted I couldn’t go any further. This was agony. I was honestly and realistically paralyzed by fear. My emotions were powerful. I wanted to slink down to the ground and crawl back to safety.
We decided that the best plan was for me and Sarah to stay where we were and allow Paul and the boys to venture on. I wasn’t crazy about the idea but agreed because I just wanted the experience to be over! A few steps away on the side of the path was a small shelter built of stone. I remember holding Sarah close and sliding my feet backward until we hit solid stone and I sank to my knees.
I felt small, and weak, and afraid.
I felt out of control.
And I didn’t like it.
Looking back on the experience, I feel a kinship with Peter. Fear is our bond and it is a powerful force.
“Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and beginning to sink, cried out ‘Lord, save me!’” Matt. 14:29-30
From the safety of the boat, Peter looked at Jesus on the water and in awe decided to walk toward Him. All was well until he began to consider his circumstances and question the wisdom of his decision. Losing focus on the One who could keep him steady, he began to sink. In his heart, Peter could walk on water but his head got in the way.
Like Peter, our lack of trust can significantly limit the rich experiences God has for us.
Ashamed as I am to admit, my mind could not focus on the ONE who always is in control….GOD! My Heavenly Father was longing for me to “Cast my cares on Him” (I Peter 5:7).
How is your faith?
Maybe you’re not actually walking on a narrow trail that teeters thousands of feet above the ground yet circumstances have made you feel as if you’re on the edge. You’re paralyzed. One false move and you risk losing something significant…maybe your life…or life as you know it. Like Peter, you can see Jesus in the distance but the chaos around you speaks louder than the peace and calm He offers.
Cry out to Him…like Peter did. He is waiting to save you from yourself.
Admit your fears. Have an honest conversation with the Lord.
Keep your focus on the One who sees you and knows your every need.
Believe that as God’s child, you have DIVINE power! Power to destroy thoughts that hold you captive, fearful, even paralyzed.
Then, trust in the full assurance that God is always in control.
~ Tara Dye is a longtime member of LIFE Fellowship. She and her husband Paul have three children.