Storm Warnings

Year 7-Day 143: Today, I am grateful for storm warnings.

I am truly grateful for storm warnings. Preparation can make a difference when a storm comes. Lives are saved because people are watchful and alert. 

"We want Christ to hurry and calm the storm. He wants us to find him in the midst of it first."- Beth Moore

My mind goes to the night Jesus is overcome with the grief of his cousin, John The Baptist's, beheading. Jesus can't escape the crowds and ends up feeding the 5000 with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. People had been pressing in on him and he needed time with the Father to pray through the storm of feelings. He sends the disciples out in a boat and he takes the time he needs to pray, grieve and recharge.

When Jesus decides to join the disciples, they are out in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. He walks to them on the water. They first think he is a ghost... and then, they question him with Peter taking charge.

And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” (Matthew 14:28-33)

What a day... and night.... for Jesus and his disciples. The day had been full of sorrows, miracles... and then another storm. 

Jesus had tried to prepare them for the hard things but they had a difficult time understanding because they saw most things with human eyes. They would look back on things he said much later with clearer understanding. "Hindsight is 20/20." is a common expression. 

That night, Peter ends up walking on the water to Jesus. Imagine that? And in this passage it says "And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased." When Jesus got in the boat, the stormy winds stopped. I love that reminder of the difference it makes when Jesus is in our boat. 

Tonight, the weather is stormy again here in Central Illinois. I am grateful for storm warnings... and Jesus in the boat. 

Today, I am grateful for storm warnings.