Riding the Roller Coaster

It's Sunday, again after what seems like a very long week. As I reflect back I can hardly believe the roller coaster I've been on. Now, I know most people like roller coasters, the rush of adrenaline, the wind in their hair, the feeling of relief as the ride comes to an end, then the anticipation of the riding the roller coaster yet once again.

But not me. I don't like them. Nope, not one little bit! I'd much rather choose a different, safer more predictable ride like the Merry-Go-Round.

I'm struck by the fact that unlike an amusement park where you can choose what you ride, life does not allow the same luxury of choice. Rather we're placed on a specific ride regardless of our likes and dislikes. What we do get to choose is our reaction to the ride. Part of our reaction must be based upon trust. Do we trust the one who is in control of the ride? Will we get to the end safely even though the track may rise and fall with bumps and turns around each bend?

So even though I may not like the ride I've been on lately, I do trust the One who is in control. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not going to throw my hands up in the air and embrace the rush as the roller coaster rises and falls. Nope, I'm still going to hang on for dear life. But at least I'm not going to fight (of flee from) the ride. Rather I'm going to take a deep breath and trust that eventually the "wild" ride will come to an end.

Now, I'm not sure whether my ride has come to the end or whether it's just stopped before starting again. I do know, that I can make it though safely with the help of my Savior who has His arms tightly wrapped around me, and that much I can embrace. Because regardless of the ride Christ will be there right beside me. And after all, isn't that what it's all about--learning to lean on and trust Him.

So go ahead and crank up the ride. I'm ready--roller coaster or Merry-Go-Round. With Christ by my side I can't lose.

Trusting my Savior,
~Cheryl