Buckle Up

Although you will notice "Lutheran theology" on the list of interests in my profile, I'll probably never be known as a "Lutheran blogger," someone whose blog mostly consists of theology and Lutheran issues. I'm just a "blogger with a Lutheran perspective." Tonight I decided that this relates to another one of my listed interests, roller coasters! I looooove riding roller coasters! I've also been a reader of several roller coaster newsgroups and bulletin boards. I've picked up a lot of information and jargon like "traditional out-and-back" and I've had my own humble opinion on things like the wood vs. metal debate. I've even learned about roller coaster safety, why I can strap myself into a vehicle that will reach 120 mph and go over 400 feet into the air, and trust that I will reach the ground again in one piece. But I don't get into discussions myself. I won't ever be one of those people going on about maximum ride capacity per hour, or the minute details of how a roller coaster works. In the end, I just love to ride!

In similar fashion, I enjoy finding out and want to learn how God wants me to live, and about what it means to be Lutheran. Of course, I attend church. I try to read the Bible and learn from it. I've had a few deep discussions with other Christians, and I listen earnestly when those I trust discuss matters of faith. I read online conversations between Lutherans and Lutherans, and Lutherans and non-Lutherans, from which I've learned a lot, like the discord within the LCMS, and how many are leaving for the ELCA, or the WELS, or Eastern Orthodoxy, or something else entirely. I try to show my faith to others by my actions, and just about everyone who knows my family at all, knows that we are Christians. But generally, I don't get involved in talk about the intricate details of theology.

I'm not trying to trivialize faith here, just share my own personality quirks with you, my loyal reader. It's more important than anything to be sure why you believe in the Christian faith, and in specific matters of doctrine. You need to find out why you can undoubtingly place your trust in Christ as Savior. The worst that can happen to you on a roller coaster is that, against incredible odds, you could die. Eternity, however, in the words of Prince, "it means forever and that's a mighty long time".

I think in the end, it's just my Evil Genius* coming out! I will "observe, calculate, discern and decide," yes. But then I want to trust in God and enjoy the ride!

*Unfortunately, the original quiz doesn't seem to be around any more, but you can read about being an Evil Genius here.