
Once upon a time there was a person walking along a path in the woods. Suddenly a bear appeared and started to run after them. The person ran and ran until they fell off a cliff. Fortunately there was a small tree sticking out from the side of the cliff and the person quickly grabbed it. As they hung there they looked down and saw a deep drop below and looking up they saw no way to climb back up without a rope. The person called out, "Is there anyone up there?" After a pause a voice replied - "This is God. Let go and I'll catch you." After a very long pause the person called out "Is there anyone else?"
This story elicits a laugh from all who hear it because we recognize ourselves so well. I find myself recalling it at times of confusion and uncertainty about how I'll "survive" a challenging situation. I tell myself I trust God and God's love and presence but...then I can find myself hesitating and looking about for something else. I don't know what this person hanging off the cliff did but I do know when I am willing to push past that hesitation and let God catch me and hold me it proves to be the correct step. The result is not always what I predicted but the hand of God is there and I am back on my feet on solid ground.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Joan is the Director of Development and the Manager of the Prayer Enrollment Office at the Chicago Cenacle.