Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves, churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?” They climbed into the boat, the disciples having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, “This is it! You are God’s Son for sure!” (Matthew 14: 30 – 33)

There must be something wonderfully compelling about roller coasters. Many people pay lots of money to spend hours in long lines just to ride for a minute and a half. Perhaps what is so attractive is the incongruous juxtaposition of terror and security. When the coaster takes that first big plunge, or goes upside-down in the loop, or twists through the insanity of the corkscrew, the rider has to be absolutely convinced the ride is 100 percent safe. At the same time there’s got to be another part of the rider screaming in abject fear, certain that a horrible death is imminent.

Perhaps a roller coaster best describes the Christian ride. We’re like the disciples being tossed about by the storm. The wind and the waves of life are terrifying. We’re often blown off course, and our tiny boat is no match for the mighty sea of chaos that threatens to engulf us. At times it can seem like all is lost.

But in order to rejoice in the ride, we need to be convinced that Jesus is taking care of us no matter how crazy things get. We have to be like Peter, willing to take the plunge and step out into the turmoil. If we can thrust that the people who designed and built the roller coaster, how much more can we have faith in the designer and builder of the universe? Yet we, like Peter, often have so little trust. Good thing the Lifeguard is on duty.