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Thursday, May 19, 2011

High Flying Adventures Available

I have a Christian brother who is a commercial pilot for executive jets.  He flies all over the world and I have offered to be a corporate chaplain if his company ever needs.  I did tell him I could not be his RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) but would rather sit in the plush cabin sipping on a glass of iced tea and enjoying the view.  I am not afraid of flying.  What I am really afraid of is a immediate deceleration resulting in a vertical descent and a sudden and abrupt landing.  In other words, I am afraid of crashing. 

A few years ago attending a seminar in New Orleans I was joined by my wife, Vicki.  She had never flown before and was very agitated.  One time after hearing a noise, she grabbed my arm asking me what happened.  I told her since we had not even left the gate the baggage handlers had just shut the cargo door.  Each sound, bump, and movement of the plane brought more and more questions from my wife. 

There are many people who enjoy flying.  I love the train and this was how I got back and forth from college in New England to Virginia where I lived.  The gentle and swaying motion of the coach car would relax me and I would sleep during the thirteen hour trip.  I have eaten at a dining room table on the train and slept in my bed on a train.  However you choose to travel there are both good and bad points to consider.

Isaiah 40:29-31says "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

The entire chapter deals with a comparison of a powerful God to powerless idols, nations, and rulers.  While they have ultimately no abilities in comparison to our heavenly Father, He even calls forth the stars by name and none ever goes missing.  A comparison of God to a shepherd who loves and tends his flock with love shows him carrying a lamb close to his heart and being gentle in moving his sheep. 

So, if I really want to soar high like an eagle, then I place my daily and eternal hope in God.  I don't need to worry for my daily bread and I need not get frustrated by rising gas prices, illness in my family, or even death.  My hope is based not upon a human leader nor this wonderful country.  My hope is in a place I know waits for me because Jesus said he is coming back for me.  Until that time I can soar on eagle's wings. 

My friends soars on high priced wings manufactured by man which will one day rust away.  My wings are God made, installed, and supported and I am just waiting for the next warm air stream to lift me above the problems of this life and carry me along the way.   

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