Songs or Tales

One of the heroes of the Lord of the Rings trilogy in both the books and the films is Frodo Baggins. Even though Frodo is a hobbit or Halfling (about half the height of a man), he is given a quest that even the bravest and strongest man would not want: take the ring to the land of Mordor ruled by the evil Lord Sauron and destroy the ring in the fires of Mount Doom.

Initially, Frodo is accompanied on his quest by the fellowship of the ring: an allegiance of two men, a dwarf, an elf, a wizard, and four hobbits, including Frodo. When the fellowship is broken by an enemy attack, Frodo ends up with just one companion: friend and fellow hobbit, Samwise Gamgee. As Frodo and Sam near Mordor, Sam becomes philosophical about their quest and wonders if Frodo will ever be put into songs or tales. He suggests that “Frodo and the Ring” will be one of everyone’s favorite stories, starring “the most famousest of hobbits.”

“You’ve left out one of the chief characters—Samwise the Brave,” advises Frodo. “Frodo wouldn’t have got far without Sam.”

Frodo’s words prove prophetic. Sam proves himself to be incredibly brave, and because he protects and even rescues Frodo, the quest ultimately ends in success. Two have fared better than one could. Their toil and sacrifice bring a great reward to everyone.

When Jesus sent out his twelve disciples (see Mark 6), he sent them in pairs. When Jesus sent out seventy--two other disciples (see Luke 10), he sent them in pairs. Even when Jesus needed a donkey on which to ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, he sent a pair of disciples. 

Every step of the way, Jesus taught his followers that two are better than one—even if they are never put into songs or tales.

Questions for Reflection and Application

• In what situations do you tend to go solo instead of partnering with someone? Why do you do that?
• If you are married, then your primary partner is your wife. But your wife cannot be your partner in every situation. What are some situations where it is better for you to partner with another man? In which of those situations are you not partnering with a man today? Why not?
• Each of us has strengths and weaknesses. Your ideal partner is someone with strengths in areas where you have weaknesses. Who is your ideal partner for evangelism? Service to those in need? Teaching? Accountability? Leadership?