THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Monday November 6, 2023

Lord, I’ll never understand how you slept soundly amid the violent storm. You and your disciples were enjoying a peaceful nighttime cruise across the Sea of Galilee when a ferocious springtime storm erupted. Scripture details the boat as tossed and overwhelmed by massive waves and in danger of sinking. Where were you? With the disciples, in the same boat in the same storm. But you were asleep.

I would have done the same as the disciples—panicked. I’m shaking my head how your disciples had to wake you from your sound sleep.. “Lord, save us. We are perishing” (Matthew 8:23–27). How did you sleep through the noise, being tossed like a rag doll, and waves crashing over you?

To use today’s vernacular, Lord, you replied something like, “Dudes! What’s the big deal? Why are you fearful. Grab you some faith. I haven’t gone anywhere.” Then you rose, saw the same storm threatening the disciples and simply spoke three words: “Peace. Be still.” Scripture states “suddenly, there was a great calm.” The disciples arrived at their destination safely.

Most likely the disciples used this boat numerous times crossing the sea and had experienced these sudden springtime storms. This time, the story indicates this storm made the others look like a lawn sprinkler.

Lord, how many times have I been on a stormy sea? More times than I can remember. How many times did I trust the safety of my “boat,” my wealth, my job, my ingenuity … more than trust you? Sadly, more times than I can remember.

Lord, I can identify with little faith. Increase my faith so I may honor you in all storms. I long to hear your voice: “Peace! Be still.”

Amen, Jesus.