Trusting When You're Overwhelmed

The etching of the memory of that day remains, though some of the colors have been smudged by the passing of 30 years. It was a typically pyretic summer day under the Georgia sun, though this day brought a touch of distinctly tropical moisture on several occasions. We (a group of wild college kids) had descended on the theme park known as Six Flags over Georgia and for much of the day had spun, flipped, splashed, and rolled ourselves into a state of pleasantly temporary vertigo.

Despite the years, one memory of that day has retained a particular sense of life. We were standing in line for a final trip on the wildest roller coaster in the park and found ourselves behind a father and son. A little inadvertent eavesdropping revealed that the son had spent the day mustering his courage for what would be his very first roller coaster ride. I remember thinking, "He really picked a mind-bender for his first time!" As each successive group of passengers boarded and the line eased forward one could sense a growing tension in the young initiate. Finally….just moments before he was due to board, his attempts at a calm demeanor shattered around him, and visibly shaking, he turned to his Dad.

“I don’t think I can do this!”, came the urgent whisper.

His father smiled gently and spoke reassurance, “Sure you can!”.

“But Dad…..I don’t want to do this!!” A tear escaped and betrayed the depth of his turmoil.

“Son...have I ever lied to you?”

“N..N...No”.

“Then take my hand….let’s do this together. I promise you two things...I won’t let go of your hand and this will be the most fun you’ve ever had.”

It only took a moment for a tiny trembling hand to be engulfed in the larger one and, still shaking, he stepped into the ride one car ahead of me. The screams of joy throughout the ride and the capacious smile afterward were clear evidence that Dad had kept his word.

What about you? Does some part of your life look too daunting to handle right now? Are there circumstances that you are certain cannot be overcome? Are you afraid that the leadership task you’re facing is too big for God? Whatever you’re facing I want you to know that God’s heart for you amid your situation is the same as the one articulated so well by this young father more than 30 years ago.

“Then take my hand….let’s do this together. I promise you two things...I won’t let go of your hand and this will be the most thrilling and challenging ride you’ve ever had.”

If you’re willing to trust your Father you may find yourself on the ride of your life. Hang on tight!

Dan Scarrow

District Superintendent
North Central District of The C&MA