You may know the old story of a hiker who comes too close to the edge of the Grand Canyon, losing his footing and plunging over the side. Yet, amazingly, the hiker is able to grab hold of a small bush. Filled with fear, the hiker calls out, "Is anyone up there? Can anyone help me?"

A reassuring voice promptly answers, "I'm here; I'm the Lord your God."

Overjoyed, the hiker responds, "I'm so glad you came along, God. I can't hold on much longer."

"Before I help you," God responds, "I want to know if you believe in me."

"Yes," says the hiker. "I go to church every Sunday, I read my Bible, I pray daily, I even contribute some money to the offering."

"But do you really believe in me?" questions God.

Growing more and more desperate, the hiker shouts, "Lord, you can't believe how much I believe in you! I really believe!"

"Good," says God. "Let go of the branch."

"But, God. . ." protests the hiker. Once again God responds, "If you really believe in me, let go of the branch."

The hiker is silent for a few moments, then shouts, "Is anybody else up there?"