Behind the Falls
"By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; and he set out, not knowing where he was going" (Hebrews 11:8).
Like most people, I love waterfalls. When we visit North Carolina, waterfall stops are often on the agenda. The one we were visiting in the photo above (oddly called Dry Falls) is one of my favorites in the area where we vacation. You can actually watch the water come down from both sides since there's a path through the stone that goes behind the fall.
Obviously, it offers quite a different view depending on your vantage point. I like both views, but especially the one behind. Granted it can be slippery back there, trudging over wet rock (or icy rock in the winter!). And, of course, the sight from the frontside offers a more clear perspective of the waterfall and its surroundings.
But there's something about being behind the falls that feels invigorating. Anyone can take a picture of a waterfall standing safely on the boardwalk 100 yards back. But going behind it involves participation – which entails the reward of experiencing the waterfall from within.
I think that's kind of what it's like to be on a journey of faith with the Lord. Our epistle reading for this coming Sunday is from the famous eleventh chapter in Hebrews, sometimes referred to as the "Hall of Faith." Numerous Old Testament figures are commended in this chapter for their faith in God, showcasing how they lived out their belief in action.
It's meant to be inspiring for us to do the same. And for me it is. I don't want to just take photos from a boardwalk. Like these godly men and women who went before us, I want to hike behind the falls and participate in the mission that God has called us to, experiencing the reward of being in the midst of God's Kingdom work in this world.
It's not an easy path. And it's often slippery. Sometimes we walk through sorrows, hardships and challenges. But as the Church we do so together in community. Not to mention, we also share our celebrations, milestones and joys with each other as the Lord leads us along this path into the ministry he's called us to.
Friends, I'm thrilled about what God is doing at Christ Church and by what he will do. Let's continue our venture together, seeking the Lord's direction on how he'd have us connect more deeply with him, with each other, and with those around us who need to know him. Will you join me in prayer for God's leading in these areas as we step out in faith and walk behind the falls?
Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with thy most gracious favor, and further us with thy continual help; that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in thee, we may glorify thy holy Name, and finally, by thy mercy, obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (BCP, p 832)
Fr. Darin+