ADVENTURE
Ad ·ven·ture [ad-ven-cher] a bold, usually risky undertaking; hazardous action of uncertain outcome.
"Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.” C. S. Lewis
It seems that somewhere on the road less traveled with Jesus, we get the idea that being a Christian translates into a "safe" life.
A fairy tale that everything should be roses, rainbows, ducks, and puppies.
I don't know where that theology comes from, but in my experience and reading scriptures about the lives of 1st-century believers, I can't find any evidence to back up this worldview of the Christian life.
I find Jesus saying that we will have life and have it abundantly.
If life is an adventure, then there will be risks.
There will be battles won and lost.
There will be valleys, and there will be mountains.
The difference is found in Who is leading this adventure.
For in the valley, you will find the Lily of the Valley.
As you walk past the vineyard, you will find the Vinedresser.
When you climb the mountain, you will encounter the One Who walks on the high places of the earth (see Amos).
I have found abundance comes from His presence in every place I am.
In the low places, He is my comfort.
In the fertile places, He is my humility.
In the high places, He is my vision.
And in all places, He is my glory.
I have learned without Jesus, there is no abundance, no adventure, and no living.
How do your expectations of abundant life parallel scripture?
How are your expectations of abundant life different than when you first started following Jesus?
Lord, You are our great adventure! There is no life outside of You or without You. Make us brave to pursue life with You. Amen