Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea,
and it became perfectly calm. Matthew 8:26 (NASB)
The geese have returned to our pond, and there is hope that spring will soon burst with daffodils and Easter lilies. However, our oldest grandson shrinks from the squawk that circles and looks for a place to land. The child is frightened and clings to me for comfort. Later, he is still afraid and over-tired, and I must rock him to sleep in my arms.
As I watch the toddler’s energetic limbs finally relax, and his eyes close in sweet peace, I’m reminded that Jesus draws us close to His heartbeat when we are unsure and afraid. He sees our frail state of mind.
Jesus was also weary and slept in the belly of the boat while the storm raged above. When His frightened disciples woke Him, He calmed the terror of the wind and waves. Creation responded to His voice and the disturbance ended.
A woman who’d been sick twelve years, chased Jesus through the frantic crowds to touch the fringe of His cloak. An outcast set apart because of her condition, she believed He could heal more than her hurt. And although, He’s on His way to the home of a twelve year old, Jesus pauses. He takes time to restore both. He also opened the eyes of the blind, helped the lame to walk, and restored the mute.
There is power in Jesus’ voice, touch, and presence.
Jesus sees our mad busy, the missed appointments, forgotten bills, and the empty refrigerator. Who will pick up the necessary staples, eggs, milk, and bread? He sees the guilt list that grows with each birthday we overlook, the phone calls we miss, and the letters we start, and then lose in the shuffle of words and responsibilities.
There are seasons of loneliness, missed family gatherings, children to tend to, and deadlines to meet. Then hollow hallways to endure as we wait for the next test, outcome, and uncertain future. Lean into Jesus’ love and be strengthened. Rise to the task.
Jesus knows our humanity, our fears, concerns, and weaknesses. And He hears our cries for help. He is the calm in the center of our whirlwind. Thus, we wait and expect His intervention. Though, it may not look like what we think, we trust that He will lead.
Jesus provides an inner circle.
In the midst of a fierce battle, three courageous warriors sought refreshment for David. They overcame their fears and fatigue and fought the enemy, and the cost was great. Thus, David poured the drink out as an offering. However, it wasn’t a waste. David had learned to trust God’s provision. His power was more than the might of men. Only God could quench David’s thirst. The sacrifice became an act of worship.
Jesus requires a heart response. Do we trust His love and lead? He sees the beginning and the end. So, release the angst. Though an army encamps against us, we too will sleep.
Take courage. God sees. God hears. God speaks. Creation responds and so must we.
Lily Mae
Read II Samuel 23
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