Death's Roadway

  

 “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is way of death” (Pro. 14:12).  “The naïve believes everything, But the sensible man considers his steps” (Pro. 14:15).  “So that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 6:21).  Amen and Amen and Amen!

Hey Gang: Have you ever driven on a road that one slight mistake could cost you your life?  Years ago, at the completion of Summer Camp, we often retreated to a ranch in the Northeast Corner of Montana at the foot of the Skalkaho Mountains.  We always closed camp on Friday, so as to be on the road early on Saturday heading for Montana.  

Now, I am guessing, but I would estimate we reached a crossroad that was roughly fifty miles from the Crawford Ranch when we had to make a decision.  We could go over the Skalkaho Pass or stay on the more civilized low country road, but it added a far distance to our destination and by that time the tired- meter was registering on “over load”. 

The Skalkaho Pass road consisted of a narrow lane where passing another vehicle was a life-tingling experience.  There were sheer drop-offs many places along the way, and it was the road used by the logging trucks coming off the mountain!  In other words, if you were driving a station wagon with wife and four kids, sane folks probably would not have considered it.  But there were many folks that were not quite sure how sane I was after quitting a good job, selling my house and trucking my family cross country to be the director of a non-existing boys home.  

Well, I turned left and headed up the mountain.   I learned how truly chicken I am when confronted by something I could not control -like a nine-thousand-foot mountain! But God was not finished with us yet and we arrived at the ranch safe and sound, although my teeth, from grinding, were considerably shorter. 

In a recent devotional I found that the Skalkaho was really a piece of cake and there are far more dangerous roads in the world.  I do not believe it would have taken much consideration to find another route to reach my destination than to tackle the Yungas Road, with the title of “The Road of Death” which would send a message to the more sane and cowardly. 

The Yungas Road between La Paz and Coroico, Bolivia, is 38 miles of spectacular scenery combined with heart chilling terror.  Barely wide enough for two vehicles to pass, this narrow gravel road threads its way through the Andes Mountains, attaining elevations about 15,000 feet.  With sheer roadside drop-offs of more than 2,000 feet, in places, and no guard rails of any kind, this hazardous road claims the lives of 200 to 300 travelers each year, thus the name ’the Road of Death’. It is considered the most dangerous road in the world.

I made a decision to put my family’s life in jeopardy, when I made that left turn and headed up the Skalkaho, but it was a decision that would represent only a blip in our lives.  I recall that trip often but there is a far more dangerous road that we, as creations of God travel each and every day.  It is called the road to eternity.  Where we will spend eternity is determined by the road we have chosen.

The Word is clear: there are two roads, one wide and other very narrow.   One is an easy road, but I would add that it rains on the righteous as it does on those who chose to reject Jesus as Lord and go their own way.  The appeal of this road is so strong because of the many pleasures, interesting sights, and exciting experiences along the path.  Those who travel this highway seem oblivious to its dangerous drop-offs, as well as the fact that its ultimate destination is an eternal burning lake of fire.

But God prepared another road, an escape for travelers.  It is narrow, quite rough in spots, and up-hill for much of its length.  Considerable effort is required to complete its transit, but abundant assistance is available from fellow travelers as well as from the One who built the road.  Question to ponder!  Which Road are you on?

Jesus said, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it” (Matt.7:13).   Jesus also said, “I am the way, the truth and the life.  I Am the only way to the Father” (John 14:6).   “Follow Me and I will make you a fisher of men” (Matt. 4:19).   So my friends, check out your fishing gear and let’s go snag a fish or two for Jesus.

Blessings,

Gramps