Safety.
From the time we are young we are taught to be safe. Our lives and environments are all but bubble wrapped. Some people pushed the limits of their safe zones, I’m not really one of those. I like to think I’m kinda middle ground. I have never been one to be overly cautious and I do like adventures, in theory. It wasn’t until I was faced with many “unsafe” options on an adventure of my own that I realized just how safe I have been though.
Here I am at the beginning of month eight. It’s the beginning of my last continent on the World Race. Looking back it has been great so far, but I have regrets. One in particular: zip-lining. Thrice I’ve been given the opportunity to go zip-lining. After turning down the first one I decided I wanted to give it a try, but the second time it came up I was unable to participate. Then I was given one more chance at Victoria Falls. The offer was made; I eyed my friends signing up, yet I immediately shot it down. Again I was asked and again I denied claiming that I didn’t want to. As I stood on that platform watching each of my friends fly I suddenly felt regret begin to simmer. I ignored it until now.
As I read a squad mate’s blog I realized something, I am still an onlooker. I watch my squad mates leaping into the unknown and even encourage them, but I don’t join them.
Yes, I came on the Race.
Yes, I’ve traveled the world.
Yes, I’ve faced some uncomfortable situations.
Yet, I am still standing on the platform watching as others dive off the edge. So far I’ve played it safe. I have kept to my own understandings about God and the Bible and kept my feet on solid ground. I’ve prayed for others to be healed, but never begged to see God perform a miracle. I’ve climbed mountains, crossed rivers, and navigated cultures but have always stayed in the realm of “safe”.
Well, I’m done!
I’m done staying in the safe areas. I’m done sticking to what I know. I’m throwing up my hands and throwing down the caution tape. From this point on I am going to live beyond the safety zone I grew up in. Whether I end up jumping off waterfalls or soaring in the Holy Spirit, these next four months are going to be epic. This Race may have had a few regrets in the beginning, but now it’s all or nothing. God has some big things planned and He’s already setting up. All I have to do is leap! I’m saying yes to whatever crazy adventure He brings my way whether physical or spiritual.
I’m ready now to test the waters and maybe, just maybe, I’ll find myself drowning in more than a pool back home.
