In what has been described as the most spectacular stunt to be staged at Niagara Falls in more than one hundred years, three iron-nerved French acrobats recently crossed the Niagara River Whirlpool on a motor cycle, balanced on a greasy cable tightrope.
While one of the performers controlled the cycle, the chief aerialist stood, with arms outstretched on framework above him, while below him, dangling by one foot, rode his wife, head down facing the whirlpool. Two hundred feet below them, in a veritable valley of death, the roaring white waters raged, churned and whirled.
Whatever the rewards might be in terms of fame, fortune, thrill or fulfillment few would agree that the risks involved were worth it.
As the whole death-defying spectacle is reviewed in the light of the fatal consequences which might easily have been, all reason asks, "Why?"
Years ago a French peasant woman asked that question of some mountaineers who were about to ascend the perilous crag at the foot of which she lived. They had called at her humble home for refreshment. Having told her their object was to reach the top of the mountain, she exclaimed in astonishment: "Pourquoi?" Why were they about to risk their lives? She who had lived so near had never attempted to gain the summit. It was a dangerous climb; what was the good of it? She could not understand that it was worthwhile. The excitement of adventure, added to by the risks they were to run, did not appeal to her imagination.
Could it be that for a mere view they would place their lives in jeopardy? What was their motive? What was their gain?
Why? Why? The question comes even to you, today, if unsaved.
Why will you risk your eternal safety? Why will you go on day after day without forgiveness, without peace with God, without the salvation of your precious soul? Is it worth it?
Why will ye die? Why will ye not come to Christ and live. Oh, consider the dreadful alternative, to be forever lost. Come to the Savior while yet there is time.