In “The Lord of the Rings,” a Hobbit named Frodo is chosen to destroy the evil ring of power, by casting it into the Cracks of Doom in the dark and ghastly land of Mordor. Now, Hobbits are tiny little creatures, homebodies really, who prefer a quiet life, and who would rather enjoy a good meal and a mug of ale with close friends over an adventure any day of the week. On top of that, the chances are very slim that Frodo will actually succeed in his mission to save Middle Earth. And, Gandalf, the wizard understands that. He understands how discouraged Frodo will get on this impossible journey. He knows Frodo will need a loyal friend to walk beside him, to keep him going when he is ready to give up. 

And so, Gandalf commissions Frodo’s friend, Sam to accompany him. Gandalf makes Sam promise to go the distance with Frodo, and to never leave him, no matter what. Now, others will go with them too. But, Sam has this “special mission within the mission” to stay by Frodo’s side as they travel together to Mordor.

As their journey proceeds, things begin to unravel for the Fellowship as one mishap after another threatens their mission. They’re constantly in danger. And after an unexpected death, Frodo decides to go it alone to prevent any further loss of life. At dusk, when no one’s watching, he quietly slips away on a boat to continue his trek to Mordor.

He’s halfway across the lake when he hears the loud snapping of branches and brush from the shores and sees his friend, Sam running in his direction, frantically crying out, “Frodo! Mr. Frodo!” Frodo replies, “Go back, Sam! I’m going to Mordor alone!” Sam continues barreling toward Frodo, right into the lake, and says, “Of course you are. And I’m coming with you!” Frodo shouts in horror. “Sam! Sam! You can’t swim!” The truth is, Sam can’t swim, but he will die trying. Gasping, coughing and struggling for breath, Sam sinks beneath the gloomy surface, until Frodo reaches down and pulls him up into the boat. Wet and shivering, Sam says, “I made a promise, Mr. Frodo. A promise. ‘Don’t you leave him, Samwise Gamgee.’ And I don’t mean to. I don’t mean to.” “Come on then,” Frodo finally says, as they resume their journey to Mordor. 

Sam’s loyalty and his sacrificial friendship strengthens Frodo and helps him become the person he is meant to be. He helps him accomplish his mission. 

This Sunday, May 30, I am continuing my sermon series as we look at the friendship of David and Jonathan. So, please join us as we discuss further this idea of sacrificial friendship. You can join us in person at either 8:00 am or 10:30 am in our newly remodeled sanctuary, or at 10:30 am via Zoom, Facebook Live, and Youtube. 

 

Pastor John