by Desiree Bustamante

Let Jesus into your boat.

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“That evening Jesus’ disciples went down to the shore to wait for him. But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn’t come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum. Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough. They had rowed three or four miles when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified, but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here!” Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination!”
John 6:16-21 New Living Translation

Jesus tends to show up unexpectedly in places where we desperately need him, as He did to the disciples. They feared for their lives in a storm and then feared for their sanity when they saw Him walking toward them on the sweeping waves to reassure them.

The disciples weren’t expecting to see Jesus, especially walking on water. But that is often Jesus’ way. Even while they were afraid, and agonizing over their situation, they were under His watchful eyes.

Jesus is always watching us, too, and is nearer than we sometimes think. He arrives to save us in our stormiest, most frightening and lost moments, to give hope and courage, to say, “Don’t be afraid. I am here for you!”

But why did the disciples happily take Jesus into their boat, especially since it isn’t advisable to add more weight in a wind and wave storm? Because they knew they couldn’t navigate the storm without Him. You cannot go where Jesus wants you to go if He isn’t in control of your vessel. If you want to make it through the storm you must have Jesus in the boat. And then, perhaps you can also serve as a lifeboat for someone else in need.

Stop rowing so hard alone against the waves of your fears and struggles. Invite Jesus into your boat. He is watching out for you.  Always.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado