Spiritual Highs and Lows #4

When my son was a boy we spent the day at an amusement park. As soon as we entered the park he headed for a roller coaster called the “American Eagle.” It’s the tallest one in the park, as well as the oldest. It doesn’t run on a monorail like the modern coasters; instead, each car is on wheels that run independently of the track. It’s not hard to imagine the coaster flying off the track into the great beyond.

We climbed into our cart and the coaster started up a steep incline. It seemed like forever until we made it to the top. I heard every creak and groan from the old coaster as it was pulled to the summit.

When we reached the pinnacle the coaster was suspended in space for a few moments. All of a sudden gravity took over and we flew downhill at a high rate of speed. I know I’m exaggerating, but it seemed like we were heading downward at a 90 degree angle.

As we reached the bottom, once again we were pulled up another incline, and the process repeated itself in a seemingly endless cycle. After the last downward plunge the coaster leveled off and headed back to the starting point.

The Christian life is like a roller coaster. It seems like an endless cycle of ups and down. At times you’re on the mountaintop enjoying the moment and exhilarated by the experience.  Inevitably, the wonder of the apex comes to an end as you plunge downward into the valley of despair. The fall is filled with fear of impending doom. However, eventually you climb out of the pits and head towards the top again. Yes, there are times when things level off; but just like the coaster ride, this also eventually comes to an end.

Why is your Christian experience a roller coaster? Only God knows the answer, but I’ve discovered from experience at least two reasons. When you’re on the mountaintop it’s a time to revel in the goodness of God. You get a little taste of who He really is – majestic and powerful. It’s a glimpse of what heaven will be like.

There’s at least one purpose for experiencing the valley. God uses it to build your character so you become more like Jesus Christ. The valley is a time of testing that gives you an opportunity to grow in your faith. It can be a scary time, but it’s important to remember that Jesus is along for the ride.

Where are you in this cycle right now? Whichever one it is, keep your eyes firmly fixed on Jesus – and enjoy the ride.