I recently experienced skydiving and parasailing both for the first time.
As I floated above the harbor while parasailing, and viewed the beautiful countryside, I couldn't help but be amazed by God's beautiful handiwork. I was also amazed at how relaxed I felt , though I had thought it would be scary. I had decided to do this venture to overcome fear; and the people running the thing had certainly been encouraging and seemed competent. So, with an objective of overcoming fear, perhaps enjoying myself, and feeling confident in the vendors, here I sat, comfortable, enjoying the experience. Now flash forward threee weeks. I am driving home from work and the Spirit brings to my mind a verse of Scripture; "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus , who went before us, has entered on our behalf."(Hebrews 6:19-20).
Thinking on this verse as I drive along I am reminded of the parasailing venture. As I floated above the boat I was secured to it by many ropes and winches and joins---as the boat went so went I. The wind made me vary but little and even when it did the movement of the boat brought me back in line. I felt secure because I had that connection to people who had, before I came along, enetered into this sport and knew it well. I was safe because they had done their job and made the necessary attachments, adjustments and now carried me along securely. I could vary only if I chose to undo my harness and venture on my own. That may have proved fatal --- certainly not good. When the flight was over they brough me safely to landing and back to shore. Though the process was not "perfect" it was certainly secure.
That boat reminded me of Jesus, the rope reminded me of the anchor in Hebrews 6. Jesus had made the preparations for our journey by His sacrifice. By accepting the hope of salvation we were connected to Jesus and our journey controlled from beyond the curtain (by the Holy Spirit). If sensitive and stayed attached we respond to the movement of the Spirit. The winds of the this world may vary our movements but not control it. We are kept on course by the anchor of the Holy Spirit. I began to picture my life. Some times I struggled so much to control its outcome, and worried so much about it that I missed what was the beauty of the moment. At that moment the Lord reminded me that I could relax, as I had on the parasailing, and enjoy the course He would take me on. It just took being attached to Him and remaining in the harness of His Holy Spirit. I remembered the exaltation of relaxing into the sail and translating that to my life in Him I see a beautiful, exciting and exhilarating life ahead. I may need reminding occasionally Lord but if I keep your Word in my heart You will be faithful to keep me on course.
AND His way is perfect!
Thank you Lord for making your Word real to me. Thank you for the adventure of my life, the joy of your leading presence and the hope that I will eventually land safely behind the curtain! Amen
