Rope Holders

Building One Another - Vol. 12, No.19
Dear Friend, Something Walt Ungerer, a pastor and a friend, said to me many years ago came to mind while I was reading Acts Chapter 9, the story of the conversion of Saul, who became known as the Apostle Paul. After Saul had his dramatic encounter with Jesus and began to preach, a plot to kill him arose. “But his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket.” Acts 9:25* Walt asked the question, “Who are your rope holders?” Who in your moment of crisis are the people who will stand with you, who hold on to the ropes that hold you up in some situation, who trust our Lord to guide and sustain you? Rope holders are among the most precious people in our lives. They may be friends, relatives, associates, neighbors, or people we know in the church we attend. Whoever they are, their heart is to support your heart and your heart is to support theirs. If you become aware of a person you know facing some rough situation, will you be his or her rope holder? Jesus said to his followers, “You are those who have stood by me in my trials.” Luke 22:28 The Apostle Paul said, “But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength.” 2 Timothy 4:17. For whom are you a rope holder, standing by in the time of trial and offering strength? Consider who your rope holders are and if possible, thank them for standing by you!
With joy - E. Stanley Ott Copyright 2013 E. Stanley Ott *Scripture from the NRSV
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