Bracing myself for the fall, I gripped the sidebar until my knuckles turned white.
I remember the day well. An amusement park ride, “Free-fall.” The wait in line gave us ample opportunity to watch and ponder the decision to follow through with the adventure. My fear of heights gave way to assurance from college friends. I could do this. They would be with me.
Strapping in with other thrill-seekers and traveling to soaring heights, I could see the entire park from the top. As the sound of an electronic release bellowed behind us, the bottom fell out, dropping us with terrifying speed and force that took my breath. Elated the ride finally came to an end, I unbuckled and resolved for the rest of the day to keep my feet on the ground.
We aren’t always prepared when the bottom drops out of our world. Sometimes we don’t have a warning to strap in, brace ourselves, and tightly grip something—anything. We didn’t even volunteer for the ride.
Life has a way of dropping us with stunning speed and force, taking our breath. And it robs our hope in goodness. If we could just plant our feet back on the ground.
Our heart free-falls, determined never again to be a thrill-seeker. Fear and hopelessness become constant, unwelcome companions. “We’re in this together,” they promise.
When life isn’t good, we wonder if life will ever be good again. We search for hope—something to grip when everything else has fallen away.
As a pastor’s wife, I’ve had to answer the tough questions: “Why did this happen? Has God abandoned us?” I went on a quest for hope and discovered hope’s power lies in truth: God is good, full of mercy, and steadfast in love—no matter what happens. That’s the place hope rises.
God promises assurance for the adventure. Hope in His goodness: “We’re in this together. Bring me along for the ride. I can see your entire life. My view is from the top. I will be with you.”
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
Karen Friday is a pastor’s wife and lover of words through writing, blogging, and speaking. She has published a number of articles and devotions in both print and online media. Her writing connects family experiences, Christian ministry, and real life scenarios to the timeless truths of scripture. Karen earned a Communications Degree and has marketing experience in a broad spectrum of business services where she is frequently referred to as “Girl Friday.” Karen and her husband have two grown children. The entire family is fond of the expression, “TGIF: Thank God it’s Friday!” They owe Monday an apology. She can be followed at: karengirlfriday.com