Linked to the end of this blog is a short story, “Risk,” that I wrote several years ago and never published. The part that risk-taking plays in faith intrigues me, especially during times of change.

Stories in the Bible touch on risk as a first step of faith: the Hebrews had to step into the Jordan River before the waters stopped flowing so they could cross. Jesus told the man with the withered hand to stretch out that hand to begin the healing process. Four unnamed men took the risk of bringing their friend to Christ for healing. Why is faith involved?

As a society becomes less religious, we tend to leave religion behind, almost without realizing it, or only give it lip service. To choose a faith as the polestar of our lives during such a time requires a definite commitment, a taking of a risk.

I used “Risk” to explore these ideas.