The image I’ve chosen today is of a vintage roller coaster. To tell the truth, the ups and downs kind of resemble what happens in our daily walk. There are twists and turns, new journeys into the unknown and emotions that rise and fall as suddenly as this dangerous amusement park ride. We may never know when they’re going to strike, but they certainly do, leaving us emotionally and physically drained.

If we look at life in those terms, we could be seen as having fatalistic attitude. I prefer to think of these bone chilling, frightening and often easily overcome dips and surges as detours, roadblocks or obstacles that are part of this world. Life is a roller coaster, particularly during pivotal stages, but we get through it pretty much unscathed. 

When we reflect on Jesus’ final days of living as a human being, we see highs and lows in the very extreme. He was betrayed by one of His closest followers. He prayed feverishly that God, the Father would find a different course for the salvation of mankind. His tears fell like drops of blood as he struggled in the garden. His followers came to his defense when the soldiers came to arrest Him. Peter would strike a guard with His sword and cut off his ear. Only hours later, Peter would deny ever knowing Jesus. The scourge would cut through Jesus’ flesh as He was beaten. Those who once called Him, “Rabbi,” turned against Him and their cries of “Hosanna,” quickly changed to, “Crucify Him.” He would be spat upon, humiliated, scorned, hung on a cross and put to death. Yet, death would not defeat Him. He came back to life on the third day, proving that He indeed was the Son of God. Talk about a roller coaster ride.

The human spirit – created by God Himself – is an amazing equalizer. Jesus demonstrated His humanity while He lived among us. He gave His last breath for our forgiveness. He died so we would live forever. His example should be our guide as we travel through the perils of life. When we go through the trials placed before us, we know that our Champion is right there with us. He will use those barriers to protect and enrich our journey and to build us up rather than crushing us.