OK, I’m really only posting this because I like alliteration. That aside I thought you should know the lengths that our SP co-ordinator will go to to prove he has no fear. David and I were part of a trip to Germany with 19 teenagers (scary enough already if you ask me) travelling to Dresden for a range of outdoor activities and to film a documentary.
Among the activities organised was rock climbing. I took the sensible approach to this activity. I didn’t book a place. David however, was under strict instructions not to wuss out on anything. First he had a bash at climbing with ropes (you basically haul yourself up a rope using a special harness – very hard work!) after which he was convinced he had scared himself enough.
Then a few minutes later he was spotted donning a climbing harness and shoes to attempt the rock climb.
I watched the whole thing, and until that point I never realised you could climb with zero skill, just pure adrenaline! The ascent was rapid, and appeared to involve precious little use of hand or foot holds. The technique appeared akin to spider man’s, I think sheer velocity ensured adherence to the cliff. Our interpid co-ordinator then had to sit on top off the rather small flat top of the rock, eventually joined by 13 more people – a record number apparently. Having had time to contemplate life, death and how on earth he was going to get down, David abseiled down the cliff face yelling at the top of his voice “Face the Fear” repeatedly. When he got to the bottom he told me that he would have done anything to be back on the streets of Ryde facing angry drunks rather than hauling himself up and down a cliff.
I think the chant of “Face the Fear” is quite apt for a Street Pastor. Every Friday night they go out not knowing what they are going to face. They could come up against dangerous situations, or possibly have to face people’s loneliness and despair. So, if you’re sat comfortably at home on a Friday night, spare a thought or prayer for the team on the streets.
