The Tree of Life and Rock Climbing

          Let's talk Lehi's dream of the Tree of Life. There are two groups that make it to the tree, but one of the groups after eating of the fruit became ashamed and became lost, (1 Ne. 8:28). So what is the difference between these two groups? They both make it to the tree, they both partake of the fruit, why did one group fall away? I think it is in the journey. 

          The group that becomes lost after partaking of the fruit press forward "clinging to the rod of iron" (1 Ne 8:24). This clinging implies fear. They are scared as they press forward in the dark. I imagine a child clinging to his mother, and it slows the mother and child down because they are holding so tightly. This group pressed forward through life with so much fear that they held themselves back. 

          The group that stays at the tree and beckons others to come partake of the fruit press forward "continually holding fast to the rod of iron" (1 Ne 8:30). Why it is important to always have your hand on the rod of iron? Let me compare this to rock climbing. My brother and I went rock climbing in a quarry and I got to belay him. When you belay, you have to always keep your dominant hand on the rope. When I pull the rope down, I have to put my left hand below my right, then slide my right hand up the rope. My right hand continually holds fast to the rope so that I can catch the climber if they fall while I'm tightening the rope. This group that Lehi describes in continually holding fast and continually pressing forward and moving 'up the wall' (to put it in rock climbing terms). This group is proactive, they are moving through life and making choices, but always relying on the Lord's direction. 

          I hope that I can be this second group and continually hold fast to the rod of iron as I journey through this life. I know that I can make it up the rock wall knowing that they Lord is my belayer and that I can rely on Him when I am doing well, and when I slip and fall. The church is true and we can use the scriptures, prayer, temple attendance, family and so many more resources as direction to get through this life.