We often make our choices semi-consciously, leaning toward the customary response. Sometimes, we are confident of the choice, trusting that things will work out as we hope. Other times, we waver for a while, then opt for the “safer” choice, which is a good thing when a different choice is likely to result in exercising the death or dismemberment clause of an insurance policy. Sometimes, though, “safer” actually means “cowardly” or “less inconvenient” or “I just don’t want to bother with the effort it will take.”

We do this individually and collectively. Churches and other civic groups, corporations and collectives, unions and organizations. Sometimes, depending on which of whom it is, we trust in God, karma or luck and take the bold route. Sometimes it seems to be a matter of faith and sometimes it seems more like blind arrogance. Conversely, some people seem to expect the sky to collapse above their heads at any given moment. Emotionally, figuratively and literally, they miss out on thousands because they don’t dare risk a nickel.

Taking stupid risks often leads to early demise, for individuals and organizations. But it is also true that fear can masquerade as prudence and cynicism as wisdom. God has always called on people of faith to take risks but “risk” becomes an oxymoron when we understand the power of faith and the true nature of the things that are seen versus the things that are unseen.

I think it would be good for us to keep in mind that when we decide between faith and fear, we not only choose our journey, we also choose our destination.

H. Arnett
12/12/14