"Hold the Rope"

 William Carey once asked others to “hold the rope” while he goes to bear witness of Christ to the lost of India.  He believed that he himself, and others, are called to go and make a difference in the lives of lost people around the world.  He knew that someone needed to tell them about Jesus, and that they were going to hell without him.

He knew also that not everyone can go.  He knew not everyone is called.  But he needed help.  He needed people back home to “hold the rope,” that is to be a safety line, so that he would be able to go.  

There were all kinds of ways to support Mr. Carey...to hold the rope.  Certainly there was prayer.  We might be tempted to wave that off in todays culture of computers and motor cars.  It does not seem like much, but in God’s economy, that’s everything!  Its not the least she can do, its the most important thing.  If we are going to entrust a dear friend or relative to a long trip and possible privation overseas, we certainly better be praying for him or her!  

There were also donations of finances.  Financial “rope holding” gave Mr. Carey the freedom to purchase facilities and grounds, to pay staff, and provide for practical every day needs.  There is food for family.  There are services to be procured.  Many missionaries, even today, are woefully underfunded.  

Don’t forget that people could also send goods that might not easily be obtainable in a place like India.  There might be medical supplies and clothing.  Perhaps machinery or text books, and study resources.

These are all ways that Mr. Carey, and so many others have been blessed by the church through out the years for purpose of reaching the lost for Christ.

Today has not lessened the need.  In fact, they are as great as ever.  With the world population exploding, there are still many people that need to be reached for Jesus Christ.  And missionaries still need someone to “hold the rope.”  How can you hold the rope?  Do you have a missionary you support?  Are you upholding them in prayer?  Are you helping them with material needs?