Neither Fear nor Arrogance
Travertine Grotto
The Travertine Grotto is a beautiful oasis in the lower granite gorge of Grand Canyon. This waterfall tumbles approximately 35 feet into the back of the grotto formed by re-deposited calcium carbonate. Our time spent here is always a blessing to everybody. However, it takes a little effort to get there. The rock faces and the rope ladders can be exhilarating for some, but quite scary for others. One particular river runner was very intimidated and afraid of making an attempt to get up into the grotto. She viewed herself as too old, too big, and struggling too much with arthritis. The conflict was clear in her eyes. She wanted to see the beauty that awaited her, but her fear was standing in the way. I assured her that she would never be alone and that I would take her to the waterfall step-by-step. Her trust in me pushed her fear aside just enough to allow her to continue. It took considerable effort, but to the cheers of the rest of the river rats, we made it to the waterfall. She stood before the waterfall with tears streaming and proclaimed,
“I almost missed this because I was afraid.”
Grand Canyon Whitewater
The power of water is on full display in the swirling torrent of Grand Canyon whitewater. The thunderous sound of the building and crashing waves demands the respect of all who choose its path. The thrilling, heart quickening passage from beginning to end is an exercise in respect and humility requiring the boatman to work with the river and the power of the current. What is sometimes more deceiving is the quiet water of Grand Canyon. It can appear like a lazy river as it simply glides by in near silence. But that water is no trifle to be disrespected or underestimated. At 15,000 CFS (cubic feet per second) of flow, the “calm” water is moving with the force of about 30 semi trucks lined up nose to tail pushing against all in its path. Apart from the greatest engineering accomplishment of our time (Hoover Dam) it is an unstoppable force. The presence of arrogance when navigating the Colorado River puts many people in danger. Only deep respect and humility can win the day.
I share this to illustrate the manner in which Canyon Ministries is dedicated to presenting and discussing creation science. We will not be motivated by fear for the word of God is our foundation. We will not be motivated by arrogance for we are fallen humans dependent upon the mercy and grace of God. It is our prayer that we serve with a gentle (yet bold) confidence that can only be produced by the Holy Spirit. Fear will keep us from speaking when we should and keep us from the beauty God has in store for us. Arrogance will drive us to attack the individual rather than engage them.
In the end, the truth of God will be all that stands tall. Truth is not dependent upon our belief or our doubt. We cannot believe it into existence and we cannot doubt it into obscurity. Truth simply is. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Jesus said, “I and the Father are one.” Moses inquired as to how to identify God before the Israelites. God said, “Tell them, I AM sent you.” The truth has been, is, and always will be! As such I am committed to aligning myself as closely as I can to that truth.
I will not live in fear or arrogance, but in TRUTH!
Praiseallujiah!
Jon
