Just thinking...
I'm very susceptible to motion sickness. Amusement parks, therefore, don't amuse me much. But I was thinking (and praying) tonight about roller coasters.
The thrill of the roller coaster is the feeling of being out of control, the fear of losing it all. The wild ride down, down, down, ripping around the corner, twisting, whipping back and down again. Even the slow climb adds to the tension. The higher the climb, the steeper the drop on the other side.
In my imagination, at least, those fear-filled seconds are finally relieved when you find yourself still held in the seat, safe. You paid admission for this ride because you were confident that, in the end, you would be safe.
I think I'm on a roller coaster. I can't tell where it's headed, but I know who has made the track. He also made the safety harness that holds me in the seat. And He is the one at the gate, with the start button at His fingertip. God is in control, and I am safe. I will be safe. I sure would like to know where He's taking me, but I don't get to see very far ahead. Really, that's okay. I don't need to see ahead. Just stay in my seat -- and raise my hands for the wild screaming ride!
"For I know the plans that I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress,
My God, in whom I trust!"
