by Dale Fillmore
My mother-in-law had a desire. You might call it a bucket list type of desire. She wanted to take a ride on a hot-air balloon. However, she was hesitant to do it alone, so she asked my wife and I to accompany her. We are both up for most adventures, therefore, we accepted.
My only concern was what would happen if I looked straight down once in the air. I had been several stories high in tall buildings before, and found that my stomach did flip-flops when I looked straight down over the edge. When seeing the perspective of the side of the building diminish in size as it descended caused me problems. It sent chills down my spine and weakened my knees. I, therefore, worried that it would be the same reaction up in the balloon.
I’ve seen photos and videos of people walking out on those glass walkways over deep canyons or along side of high-risers. Nope, not for me! No way would I do that. It would be a horrible experience to me.
I can only imagine what it must have been like for Peter to step out of the boat during a strong storm in the dark. Jesus came to the disciples walking on the water. They had been fighting the storm with little success (can I say, no success) all evening. Jesus told them not to be afraid, it was only him. Peter challenged, “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.” Jesus invited him, “Come.”
Peter overcame his fear and reluctance by trusting Jesus, having faith to believe Jesus wouldn’t let him down. And, it went well until he looked down. Looking out to Jesus he was fine. Looking down at the turbulent sea, he was not. He began to sink. Then Peter cried out to Jesus for help and Jesus rescued him.
Imagine with me the faith it took for Peter to step out of that boat into an agitated sea. But Jesus does that, inspiring faith in Him to try things we normally wouldn’t. And, as long as Peter stayed focused on Jesus, he was alright.
Returning to our hot-air balloon trip, we did go. The heat was brought up by a flame throwing burner and we began to rise into the air. I concentrated on looking out, away to the horizon. It was good. It was beautiful. I loved it, but of course, I had to try. I had to take a look down to see what my reaction would be. I stepped to the edge of the basket and looked down. What a surprise! It didn’t bother me at all. The perspective from that basket was completely different than it was looking down the side of a building or a cliff. I enjoyed it.
I believe that sometimes when God calls us to some action He wants us to do but we are afraid of, He totally changes the perspective from what we expected. It is, by faith, the same as keeping our eyes on Jesus. Maybe we need to begin saying more often, “Let the adventure begin!” Trust Him, He will take care of you.
Just a Thought
