Thrillseeker...or Not

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:27 (NIV)

Are you a thrillseeker?  Would you skydive?  Have you bungee jumped?  Do you like roller coasters?  Or are you more on the cautious side...looking for the safe and secure?

Thrillseeker or not, this life is like a rollercoaster...and unlike skydiving, bungee jumping, or any other breathtaking adventures, you can't really "opt out".  No, you must brave the steep climb (ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch, ch) and hold on tight for the downward plunge.  You have to brace yourself...or try to relax your muscles...in preparation for the bumpy ride.  Hopefully you have adequate "cushioning" of friends or loved ones to lean on in the crazy turns that threaten to squoosh you along the way.

Here's a little reminder that "we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.  We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed....Therefore we do not lose heart.  Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.  For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."  (2 Corinthians 4:7-9, 16-18)

Yes, this "thrill ride" is laden with hills and valleys.  Jesus, Himself, told us that "In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world."  (John 16:33b)  One day the ride will be over...and that's when the real ultimate thrill comes, when we see Him face to face...when all things are made new...when there are no more tears and sadness...when we see through His eyes.

Lord, you know that this life is not for the faint of heart.  You cautioned us that there would be troubles here.  Thank You for the assurance that there is victory in You.  Keep reminding us that these light and momentary troubles...even when they don't feel light or momentary...are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all!  Ride close beside us, Lord.  Help us feel Your presence and Your peace.  We love You.  We need You.