The cool morning breeze was invigorating and I was looking forward to the climb. The Angels Landing hike is one of the best in Zion National Park and I was excited to begin. Immediately the trail rises up in a gradual incline around the base of towering cliffs and follows the meandering river below. It was peaceful to hear the rippling water. I knew it was going to be demanding, but to see the grandest views you have to climb the highest mountains.
The challenge began with an immediate ascent up, and the slope was increasingly steep. As my heart began to pound and legs started to burn, I relished the beautiful surroundings. Red rocks, blue sky, and fresh, clean air gave me a feeling of complete joy. I marveled at the creators workmanship.
On the very last measure of the course, you have to take very careful steps on a narrow footpath while holding on to an iron chain bolted into the side of the mountain. One careless moment and you could fall over 1,000 feet down the side. It was breathtaking to follow the last bit of trail.
Reaching the top was excitement mixed with a bit of fear. The height was astounding and I could see for miles. I felt like I could touch the clouds. As I marveled over the peaks and cliffs I thought about how much God loves his children. He fashioned this world for his beloved family. We are all brothers and sisters here upon this earth and all God wants is for us to love one another.
I sat and watched fellow hikers hold to the chain and ascend the last bit of the rise. Some were very careful and walked with fear and trepidation. Others were more brave-hearted and confident with their ability to maneuver the path.
I didn’t know any of those people and many of them spoke a different language than me. However, I found myself feeling great concern for their safety. I wanted them to observe and watch carefully where they placed themselves so they wouldn’t fall into danger. I wanted them to cling to the iron chain in order to avoid plummeting down into the chasm below. I feared for them and also fervently hoped for their success.
The thought struck me that this is what God means when he says to love one another. We must deeply care about others and their safety--- physically but more importantly spiritually--- as if it is a matter of life and death. We are our brother’s keeper and need to be continually helping one another along the path of life. On that day, I didn’t know a soul, but I cared for their soul.
As fellow travelers on the same journey, we need to warn our neighbors of the rocks in the way, of unseen dangers, and to plead with them to keep on the path. When we finally arrive on the pinnacle of Angels Landing touching the clouds and rejoicing in the glorious vistas, I know the perilous crossing into the land of Zion will have been worth it.
