“Reality: what a concept!”
Robin Williams
About ten years ago, a severe ice storm crippled our area. Widespread power outages left many without electricity for days. Those without backup generators, that was most of us, were forced to adjust to reality–finding alternative sources for modern conveniences.
Not surprisingly, the people who coped best during this time were those who grew up in the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s. Many of them spent their childhood creating things at home that the rest of us think only come from a store.
For example, during the power outage, my neighbors (a couple in their 80’s) simply put their perishable food items in a box on their back porch. The temperature didn’t rise above 30 degrees for a week, so they were good. Why didn’t I think of that? Another older couple had no heat, so they warmed up a cast iron skillet on their gas stove top to create a radiator!
When in a crisis, it’s a good idea to consult someone who has survived a few. Actor Alan Alda, 84–of T.V. show M*A*S*H fame–was recently asked in an interview how optimistic he was for his children and grandchildren’s future. Here’s what he told AARP magazine:
“With the world changing so rapidly, there’s no point in being optimistic or pessimistic about anything. You’ve just got to surf uncertainty, because it’s all we get.”
Alan Alda
Wow, that’s a wise way to look at life! But how do you surf uncertainty? Does this idea come with lessons?
We need only look to scripture for the answer.
Think of all the famous Bible heroes who successfully dealt with difficult circumstances. Many of these are mentioned in Hebrews chapter 11, the Hall of Faith. These ladies and gentlemen surfed uncertainty, just as Alan Alda advises, and we know HOW they did it.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2 (emphasis mine)
We see this scripture in live action when the apostle Peter went surfing with Jesus–well, kinda sorta (Matthew 14:22-31). Remember the story? Peter walked on the water to meet Christ, but started to sink when he realized he was riding a huge wave; he took his eyes off Jesus and almost whiped-out. But, just for a moment, our fisherman friend was surfing–with God!
The world only offers two options: sink or swim. But when we fix our eyes on Jesus, we can walk on the top with Him.
Surf’s Up!
Davids Daily Dose 
Comments
27 responses to “Surfing Uncertainty”
You’re welcome. Thank you for reading and commenting. Blessings.
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Very nice post, David. Very comforting and encouraging. Thanks so much for sharing. ☺
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Thanks Deandra! God Bless.
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I hope I remember these tricks should I lose power 😉
Lovely post, David, and well needed reminder for us to turn to Jesus, especially in our time period of uncertainty.
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Thanks, Angie! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
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I really like this! Thanks for the encouragement!
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I publish every Saturday at 6am, central.
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No worries. I thought of you today and thought I’d see what you had today. What days do you normally publish? God bless!
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Thank you for the engagement, Jeffrey. It’ amazing how intuitive people can be when necessary! I don’t always comment, but I read your offerings regularly. Blessings!
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You reminded me of my childhood when the heat went out. We’d light a big fire in our fireplace in the living room and tack blankets up to cover the archway to the dining room. That kept the room reasonably warm. I like the picture of riding the wave of uncertainty, staying above the problem instead of sinking into it. For Christians, riding the wave of faith. Thanks for your thoughts today!
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Yes, Alan Alda is wonderful. I appreciate how he’s always stood up for women’s rights and advocated for the downtrodden.
Faith and hope should never go out of style! Thank you for the engagement. Blessings.
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I adore Mr. Alan Alda. It’s always smart to stay malleable and ready for plans to change. Faith is what gets us through all the unknown and belief is strengthened by our commitment to it.. Great post my friend 👏
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Blessings to you.😊
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Thank you!
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Thanks for reading and commenting, Vivian. Our power was only out for six days. We had water, but no heat. However, the house stayed in the low 50’s. Your situation was I undoubtedly worse. Difficult times make me a thankful for normal ones. Blessings.
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Good job.
Sent from my iPhone
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Great post David! Keeping our eyes on Him is the only way. In 2012 we lost our power for 11 days in 100° heat. Not fun.😲 4 kids, diapers, no water since we have well water supply…..yeah, not fun.
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This is great news, Doris. We are glad Jim is doing well. Prayers continue for his full recovery. Thank you for the comment.
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Thank you, Manu. Yes, 👀 on Jesus is the only way to ride the waves of life. Blessings!
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Thanks, Betty. I appreciate your feedback. Blessings to you and Dan.
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Thank you for this hopeful post. I enjoy how you write on a topic and then weave it into a biblical lesson. The story captures your interest, and then, zap, before you know it, you’re reminded of a lesson and are inspired! Great work! Enjoy your day!
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Fixing our eyes on Jesus is a way to surf the uncertainties we face. I like that perspective.
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Amen, David, amen! Jim is home and regained feeling after the nerve block. He is having some pain, but managing. My most difficult job now is keeping him from doing too much! LOL The Dr. was very pleased with the result of the surgery. Thank you for your love and prayers.
Doris Lambert Sent from my iPhone
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Thank you, Alan. I’m glad you enjoyed post, and thank you for the tweet! Blessings.
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David this is pure brilliance brother! Looking at faith as surfing is a game changer for me today, what a blessing. I have shared this on my twitter page. God bless you brother.
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So true. Thanks for reading and commenting.
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Reality checks! Life is always about them!
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