Loyal Companion
Frodo’s protector, the noble Boromir, could no longer be trusted, having been consumed with lust for the power of the One Ring.
His hobbit friends were frightened, yearning for the safety and comforts of the home in the Shire.
The greatest danger still ahead, his wise defender out of the picture, and the evil of the Ring influencing others, Frodo knew what he must do. He had no choice but to continue the quest to which he had been called. And he must continue alone. Those he could trust were too dear to endanger further. So, pushing through the fear that gripped his heart, Frodo hid from his companions in order to sneak off on his own.
The company searched frantically for Frodo, most of all Sam. As Frodo’s friend from childhood, Sam Gamgee had shown a touching devotion and admiration for the Ringbearer that made him a better companion than either had anticipated at the start of their adventure. The only reason Sam was even on the journey was that Gandalf had “punished” his curiosity by sending him along. Since that day, they had been through many joyous and frightening experiences together.
This wasn’t the first time Mr. Frodo considered leaving Sam and the others behind. But it wouldn’t do. Sam simply could not allow his master to take such a treacherous journey alone, then or now. So he ran as fast as his short legs would carry him down to the river to intercept Frodo, whose resistance was futile. Sam was determined to remain by his master’s side. And so, off they went, two simple little hobbits floating downstream away from the safety of numbers and toward the ominous shadows of an evil domain. Regardless of what dangers lie ahead, they were going to face them together, a fact that brought great comfort and encouragement to both.
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Friend. Husband. Wife. Mother. Father. Son. Daughter. Brother. Sister. Partner. Confidante. Mentor. What wonderful words, each suggesting the warmth of acceptance and support, a shoulder to cry on when sad or a friend to celebrate with when happy. Someone to remember your birthday or care about the details of your workday. We were not made to bear the burden and experience the joys of life’s journey alone. That’s why God has given us the gift of companionship.
The Scriptures talk of a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Such was Sam to Frodo. We do not know whether Frodo would have completed his mission and returned to the Shire had it not been for the faithful companionship of Sam Gamgee. What we do know is that his burden would have been much harder to bear.
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
Adam was given Eve. God saw that it was not good for the man to be alone. So, taking the rib of one, he formed another. The two, in turn, became one. Each was a gift to the other as a companion on the adventure of life, to love, honor, cherish, and obey for as long as they both lived.
David was given Jonathan. Chosen by God and anointed king of Israel, David would sit upon the throne that legally belonged to Jonathan upon the death of his father, Saul. Jonathan had every reason to hate David. But Jonathan accepted God’s choice. He loved David and placed his own life on the line in defense of his friend. Who knows what might have happened to David if not for the loyal companionship of Jonathan?
Moses was given the voice and support of his brother Aaron when called to confront the most powerful man in the world. While awaiting trial, Paul had the steadfast presence of Luke when all others had abandoned him. These and other great leaders accomplished much, but they might have been less successful had it not been for their God-given companions.
Frodo Baggins was given Sam, a fellow hobbit who was not particularly bright or brave. He did not have the wisdom of Gandalf, the courage of Gimli, or the instincts of Strider. But he was trustworthy and loyal, and that is just what Frodo needed most.
Whom have you been given? Who knows just what to say when you’re ready to throw in the towel and what not to say when you need silence? Who is it that you call first with the good news because you know they will share in your excitement? Who are the ones God has placed in your life to share the burden and the joys of your quest? Don’t take these people for granted. They are gifts to be cherished.
Reflection:
A faithful companion on the journey of life
is one of God’s greatest gifts.
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Finding God in the Lord of the Rings - Kurt Bruner & Jim Ware. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2001.