07.22.09
Mark 4:35-41–A reoccuring theme
I think this gospel story has to be one of my favorites. It certainly is a recurring theme in my devotions and life.
I preached on this story in July and now it comes up again. I love the fact that the disciples are caught in a storm after the prompting of Jesus to “Let’s cross over to the other side.” It was Jesus’ idea to get in the boat and cross the lake. It was Jesus who devised the plan. Jesus took the lead. And look where it led.
It led to a storm that was swamping the boat and threatening the disciples’ lives, or at least that is what they thought. I am sure they figured if Jesus said to go it will be an easy crossing, after all Jesus suggested it. Then BAMMMM a storm, big waves, strong wind, drenching rain and Jesus sleeping through the whole thing. How unfair is that. It was Jesus idea, we are dying here and he is sleeping as if nothing is wrong. How dare he get us into this!!!!!
Have you ever had that thought???? I am following Jesus plans, seeking God’s will, moving with the prompting of the Holy Spirit and here I am drenched, straining against wind and waves. This is not fair. This was not my plan. I am just following “orders.”
If you are in that situation now listen to Jesus words, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Jesus plans are Jesus plans. With his plans comes his power to see his plan through to the end. In the process we may get a bit wet, our muscles may feel strained, we may be near exhaustion, but we are not forsaken nor forgotten. He is in the boat with us. Quietly present, offering hope, providing peace and assurance.
The disciples cried out to Jesus, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” How fatalistic. Yet, I am sure we have whispered the same thoughts. “Jesus, don’t you care if I am worn down, defeated, overwhelmed?”
For me this story teaches about changing my cry to Jesus. It teaches me to say, “Jesus life is hard right now. I know you are here with me. Please strengthen me.” or if time is short and I don’t have that much sanity at the time I simple cry out, “Jesus help!” NOT “Jesus don’t you care if I die!” BUT “Jesus help!” There is a difference. There is a shift from doubt and despair to courage and peace.
Jesus’ presence in the storms of life always brings courage and peace, even when the wind and waves are crashing about us. For that I am truly thankful.
So the next time Jesus says, “Let’s cross over to the other side.” Don’t we surprised by the wind and waves. Be ready to stand strong side by side with Jesus.
Elizabeth said,
July 22, 2009 at 8:30 pm
The whole bit about things being “unfair” when we feel as though we’ve been following God’s plans for our lives & then something earth shattering happens to us; are we really that arrogant to think we should be immune to life’s storms just because we’re working for Him? Guilty! Yeah, when we surrender to the Lord, we really don’t get to mark out the terms; well you could try, but I think he just shakes his head in amusement (& probably a bit of frustration) at our ignorance. When we’re in that storm it’s an opportunity to be drawn closer to Him; maybe that’s the reason He’s brought us there in the first place? ok, You made me think of two songs (man, I really need help with the songs in my head!) – I am Ready for the Storm (Rich Mullins) & one whose name escapes me : Draw me close to you, never let me go…You’re all I need
Sue said,
July 25, 2009 at 12:57 am
God’s timeliness never ceases to amaze me, Greg. Thanks for being His mouthpiece and sharing this. I could not have read a more perfect message tonight.
Blessings, brother.