There is a fine line between excitement and fear sometimes. Think roller coaster. You stand in a long line anticipating the thrill of the ride. The adrenaline builds as you get closer to the front of the line. There is a sense of “can I really do this? ” or “is it too late to turn and run?” As you crawl into the seat of the ride’s car, you can’t help but wonder if you made the right choice. What if something goes terribly wrong and your car goes off the track and you are hurled through the air at such a speed that the force with which you hit the ground kills you? What if there is an equipment malfunction and you get stuck at the top of the scariest peak?
And then the ride begins. Slowly at first, but gaining speed rapidly. You find yourself smiling, but still slightly fearful of the inevitable twists and turns, dips and hills. And they DO happen. You hear your own voice screaming in fright, but seconds later laughing with delight. The rush of excitement overtaking you, leaving you breathless, and slightly unsure of what’s around the next bend.
The ride comes to a stop. You take a deep breath and your first words are “let’s do that again!” You have not only survived, but have truly lived. You are a little bit braver and a little less afraid. And you have had a taste of taking the risk and enjoying the ride. And you will never be quite the same…
Life. That’s what it’s like if we are truly living it. If we face our fears, trust the ride’s Operator, and jump in.
I’m at that place right now. About to step into the car of a new ride in this amusement park. Before me lies an opportunity that I don’t fully understand. I am feeling both excitement and trepidation. I could fall flat on my face. The ride could stop suddenly and leave me stuck. Every fear imaginable has gone through my head and my heart.
But I have been led to this ride. I could run away from it, but then I would never know the thrill of trying something new and seeing where it could take me. There will be twists and turns and bumps and dips. But I also believe that there will be some peaks in there. I don’t know what they will look like or when or where they will happen. And I hope they take my breath away…
Jesus, You know my fear. But You created this ride and You wouldn’t ask me to get in if You weren’t going to ride with me. Please hold my hand when I’m afraid. Tell me I will be all right. Scream with me. Laugh with me. And when the ride slows to a halt, raise Your hands with me as we both say, “let’s do it again!”
Isaiah 43:2 – When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Deuteronomy 31:6 – Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
