Unlike the previous philosophers we’ve looked at in the past few meditations, the “Great Dane” Søren Kierkegaard lived after Jesus and wrote about the impact of the Christian faith in his life. Often called the “father of existentialism,” Kierkegaard wrestled deeply with what it means to live as a Christian. Existentialism is a philosophical approach that emphasizes the individuality of each person as a free and responsible agent determining their own development through acts of the will. Where many philosophers view people as unwilling agents, acted upon by outward forces out of their control, his focus was on the significance of free will.
Kierkegaard was not only a philosopher; he was a theologian. He believed that faith was more than simply intellectual agreement or a desire for morality. Faith, he said, isn’t irrational, but it also can’t be entirely rational. At some point, faith requires a leap: a step into the unknown where reason can’t take us. Our minds can lead us to an understanding of religion, but passion and a willingness to trust God in the face of uncertainty and doubt lead us to faith. Religion is debated; faith is considered. Religion offers theories about how to live; faith is lived.
This image resonates with the writer of Hebrews: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1).
Faith isn’t built on proof. It is not a neat equation we can solve or a tidy argument we can win. Instead, it’s a trust that rests in the unseen promises of God. Faith is a leap—but not into darkness. It’s a leap into the arms of the One who is faithful.
Abraham left his homeland, not knowing where he was going. Peter stepped out of the boat onto the waves of the sea, eyes fixed on Jesus. Paul persecuted Christians and then became one. Each took a step that couldn’t be justified by reason alone. Each chose trust over certainty.
In our own lives, God often calls us into places where our questions outweigh our answers. We are asked to forgive when we want to cling to bitterness. To give when resources feel scarce. To hope when circumstances seem hopeless. To trust when the path ahead is unclear. Faith doesn’t mean we see the whole road or what’s around the next corner—it means we know the One who walks with us and knows the road because the road belongs to him.
Kierkegaard reminds us that faith always involves risk. But Hebrews reminds us that our risk is safe in God’s hands. The leap of faith is, in the end, a leap into grace. When was the last time you closed your eyes, tuned out your doubts, and took a leap of faith? Is there something in your life now holding you back where you need to let go and leap?
Prayer: Lord, I confess that I long for certainty and control. I want to see the road before I take the first step. Teach me instead to trust you, even when the way is hidden. Give me the courage to take the leap of faith—not into the unknown, but into your faithful love. Amen.
