I’ll

never forget a hike we took with students in a canyon in Arizona. The

path was steep and narrow. One of the students was scared of losing

her footing but still wanted to make the hike. So for the entire

time, she held onto the back of my backpack for stability and

security. I’ve never watched my footing so carefully, because

someone along with me was relying on it.

I

think about that hike when I read this passage. Causing someone else

to stumble on a treacherous path would be cruel. Causing someone else

to stumble in their faith could be devastating. Jesus took it so

seriously that he said it would be better to tie a giant rock around

your neck and drown than to cause someone to stumble. I’ve worked

with students for many years, and while I’ve been a mentor and role

model to many, I’m sure I’ve caused some students to stumble as

well. Those in­stances cause me pain.

Our

calling as followers of Christ is to walk with others who are

journeying the same way we are. We support each other in our faith.

We strive to be there when questions are asked. We try to be a

shoulder to cry on and a partner to laugh with. We journey together.

Jesus

reminds us to be a support for others rather than causing them to

stumble or fall. We must also watch out for the things in our life

that can cause us to stumble. It’s better to get rid of them than

to fall.