In the Storm—He Stood Up
Did you know there are 12 (TWELVE) documented types of storms? Each carry similar qualities yet hold unique elements. The list consists of ice, blizzard, snow, fire, dust, gale, wind, squall, (breathe) thunder, cyclone, hail and tornado. One thing is certain regarding a storm—we are not in control. All we can do is seek shelter and hang on!
Storms. The storms of life, metaphorically speaking, they can either make us or break us. I asked the Lord to show me the storm, then thought, “WAIT! Let me put some towels down first” (I have an amazing imagination).
The disciples experienced a dandy of a storm. Mark chapter 4. In this story Jesus gathers the disciples and tells them “Let us go over to the other side” (v 35). Simple statement. So, in the boat they go on the Sea of Galilee. Seemingly a normal journey across, but a furious squall arose. The violence of the storm shook the water in the lake creating waves that splashed over and began to fill the boat. A shaking. The disciples on board, of these Peter, Andrew, James, and John were all fishermen, seasoned men of the sea. These men knew how to handle a boat. Nevertheless. They were afraid. No matter how well educated, wealthy, experienced, even prepared—there WILL be moments the elements arise.
Jesus is asleep in the back of the boat. He wasn’t concerned of the danger out on the water—He could simply walk to shore (smile). The disciples cry out to Him. He stood up. “Quiet! Be still!” He said. I find it interesting that the wind and waves knew He was talking to them and not the disciples. Perhaps in reality, both.
He stood. He spoke. The storm calmed.
“He got up.” I love this. I want, I NEED Jesus to arise in my boat. Be standing in the midst of MY storm. Standing in all majesty and speaking with all authority. How about YOU? Do you have some shaking going on? Is your life being swamped over by the elements swirling around you? Do you fear you will sink? When life is chaotic, messy and quite a stormy challenge, our first responsibility is to access the situation, respond appropriately—cry out to Jesus.
We are never meant to be in the storm alone. Jesus, in the boat, in the storm WITH the disciples —with us to the other side.
He got up.
Disclaimer note: Immediately following the sea session, they come ashore and what do they encounter now? A demoniac man! Keep your eyes open folks!
In Him, DeDe (“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love & good deeds” – Hebrews 10:24).
Inspired Fountain 