It was a Friday night when I received a disturbing text from my son that every parent dreads — especially when you’re 4,000 miles away. He was hiking alone on Tucson’s challenging Finger Rock Trail, an adventurous challenge that had taken an unexpected turn.
Eager to reach the summit, my son had underestimated the setting sun. As he began the 4-mile descent back to the trailhead, darkness quickly enveloped the trail. The last of his water was gone, and the faint outlines of the path faded into the shadows of the canyon. Then, nature’s sounds heightened the tension. A javelina snorted and crashed through the brush nearby, followed by the ominous rattle of a snake.
That’s when his text arrived: “Does it cost stuff if I call 911?”
Focused on my phone, I opened my “Find Friends” app and pinpointed his location. I could track his movements and guide him via text. I sent descriptions of landmarks to watch for, urging him to stay on course. Using the dim light of his phone and my remote directions, he navigated the treacherous terrain.
For the next hour and a half, I offered guidance and encouragement. Finally, he emerged safely from the mountain’s shadowed grip — a nod to technology, determination, and a parent’s instinct to protect, even from afar.
The experience left us reeling and thankful to God as it illustrates for me firsthand His great love for humanity.
The Bible is full of accounts where God rescues his people. God personally saved Daniel in the lion’s den, protected the three in the fiery furnace, and used Gideon’s small army to save a nation. God showed up for the Israelites as He parted the Red Sea, gave them food in the desert and brought them to the promised land.
Moses encouraged the people with these words: “Be strong and courageous… for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).
God is ever present to remind those who follow Him that He always goes with them — where ever they may roam. Not only is God with us, but He promises to never “leave you or forsake you.”
Often in life one can feel abandoned by choices we make, or situations that happen to us. God’s presence, faithfulness, guidance and protection are with us in times of difficulty. God gives His followers His power and provision in fulfilling His plans. With this knowledge one can, “be strong and courageous” if they are listening and following the God who has called them into relationship with Him.
For followers of Jesus the promise includes the assurance of salvation through Jesus Christ, who guarantees God’s eternal presence. Jesus said “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).
Life’s challenges remind us of God’s faithful presence, as He promises never to leave nor forsake us. I was blessed to guide my son down the trail, but we can trust God to guide us through all life’s uncertainties. As followers of Jesus, we are called to step boldly in faith, knowing He is always with us, offering strength and lighting our path. Will you trust Him?
Frank Alioto is the pastor of Roots Family Church and a chaplain in our community.
