Saturday, May 12, 2012

Roller Coaster Envy

The other day I realized I have roller coaster envy. I don't covet the roller coasters of anyone else. Rather I am envious of those who can ride with carefree abandon. Throwing their arms up in the air and keeping their eyes wide open while they are hurled at 100 mph over rattling tracks. Standing at the bottom where you can view the pictures taken during the ride, these people look like they actually enjoyed it.

I, on the other hand, will never purchase one of those pictures. Since in my picture I look all scrunched up and white-knuckled with a deer-about-to-get-hit-by-headlights look on my face. Oddly, I actually like to ride roller coasters. When we go to an amusement park I will make sure I face my fears and take a ride on the wild side or Thunderbolt or whatever the name may be. Maybe I am a glutton for punishment or maybe I just like being with those who can ride without fear.

Perhaps this is also why I love stories about other people's faith. Stories in the Bible about Elijah, Daniel, Esther, Noah and Isaac have always been my favorite. These men and women of faith lived boldly in their belief that God was in control. They didn't cower and run from difficult times but made choices which put them in physical danger or had them face public humiliation. I am envious of these people as I try to live a safe life. I profess a faith when I am secure and comfortable but pray hard to be saved from the trials I see around me.

The giants of faith ride through life on a roller coaster with their arms in the air knowing that God is in control. These are the stories that inspire me to live my own life with a faithful abandon. A life marked not by a need to keep myself safe but a life willing to face challenges with boldness. And my desire is when all is said and done, the pictures that remain will be of a life filled with joy and faith. Now, pictures like those I might even want to buy.