Well, we have our own version of "extreme sports" at Cedar Springs. Granted, it's not as thrilling as the zip line tour I just mentioned, but it isn't bad. I've been working really hard on getting a good snow tubing run built here. I may have mentioned previously that it has not been easy. I could not get the tubes to zip down the hill like I envisioned. Well, the temps warmed up and melted some of the snow, so much so that I didn't think we would be able to use the run any more. I was wrong. It melted just enough to give the run a nice icy covering. The group of boys we had Friday/Sat morning had a blast, but the run was really "workin good" for the group that came Sat. night. So good that we blew past the end of the run and we had to be careful not to run into the trees. I don't know how fast we were going, but sitting low to the ground it felt like about 40 mph. I had the run lit with spot-lights but in the darkness you weren't sure where you were going. And, coming out of the first big bank, you're weren't sure if you would stay on the track or jump right over the protective berms I have along the sides of the run.
So why do some human beings love the thrill of living on the edge? Experts tell us that in these situations the brain releases a chemical that stimulates our system. It's kind of like getting high on drugs.
I once asked a guy why he liked to bungee jump. (I think that's crazy!) He said "There's nothing like the rush of bungee jumping."
The problem we have gotten ourselves into is that with every rush, we need something more, and now we have become a culture that is never satisfied. We feel empty inside. People today chase after the next new and exciting activity or they chase after material wealth to find something to give their lives meaning.
So I"m not a psychologist, but I believe for some, participating in extreme sports is a way for them to feel fulfilled. I don't have that problem. In July of 1995 I experienced the most extreme moment anyone could ever have. I met the Savior.
It was at the PK event in Minneapolis. I had been running from Him for years, I was lost and at the end of myself, and He came to me. I felt His presence flow into me from my outstretched finger tips to the depths of my heart. It was Him-Jesus-through the power of the Holy Spirit of God. I was "born of the Spirit." (John 3:1-21)
I have been forever changed because of that experience, and I am not in need of any other thrill.
Many of you who have not experienced this personal connection with God are thinking right now that I am a religious nut or you are thinking, "I'm happy for you!" but you don't know what you are missing out on.
I can not, scientifically or otherwise, define for you what is different about my experience and those who practice meditation and connect with their spirit guides, or Native Americans who connect with the "great spirit" through their rituals, or any other religious experience people might have-but it is different!
Jesus said that "you will know the Truth and the truth shall set you free." This is the truth-"No one comes to the Father except through Me." (John 14:6)
I wonder, have you met this Jesus yet? Meeting Him is the only "extreme" experience you will ever need!
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