The summer between my freshman and sophomore year in college, I bought a small, 16 foot sailboat that only held about four people. My favorite place to sail was on Lake Michigan; the lake was so huge you couldn’t see any side other than the one you left from. It felt like you were alone at sea with unlimited routes to take.
One Saturday in late summer, we took the boat out, even though the conditions were very rough. We had fun for a while, challenging the waves and being tossed around; it felt like a real adventure! Unfortunately, the fun turned to panic when the waves started coming into the boat. We were tossed to and fro and began to lose hope. We were inexperienced and the sea was too rough. After a long battle, the crew (me and two friends), had to abandon the sailboat and let it be taken by the sea. We grabbed our life jackets and jumped into the violent water. Fortunately, there were no casualties that day. After I crawled up onto the sandy shore and looked back at the boat being pummeled by the waves, I cried out to the Lord for him to take us out of that situation!
I was reminded of this tragedy when I was studying John, Chapter 6. The disciples were caught at sea in a very rough storm. Jesus was not surprised by the storm nor was he shaken. He came to his disciples and rescued them in the midst of their trial. He commanded the wind and the waves and met them in their time of need. The disciple’s hearts were so encouraged that Peter jumped out of the boat and walked on the water to Jesus!
How often do we neglect to cry out to the Lord in the midst of our trials? Do we ask God to take us out of our situation or for him to meet us in it? Jesus not only saved his friends, but he met them and was present with them. I would take Jesus being close to me in a trial over having an easy life any day!
Maybe you are in a trial right now? The sea is raging and the waves look overwhelming. Let us not forget that Jesus meets us where we are! He is near to the brokenhearted and has not abandoned you in your trials. Even though times may be hard, Jesus is with you; there is hope!
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” Romans 12:12
Christian, let us rejoice in our hope, for Jesus is nearer than you think!
Rejoicing with you,
Austin
Posted in A Word from the Pastor