With You in the Storm
The Sea of Galilee in Israel is known for violent, sudden storms. Strong winds can create huge waves that threaten seafarers, like we see in the book of Mark.
The night the disciples and Jesus crossed the Sea of Galilee, a storm set in. Violent. Sudden. Terrifying. And while the disciples frantically worked to keep the vessel afloat, there was Jesus, asleep in the boat. The disciples woke him and asked: “Teacher, do you not care if we drown?” (Mark 4:38 NIV)
That question might read a little differently for you today:
“Jesus, do you not care that my health is falling apart?”
“Jesus, do you not care that my finances are draining out?”
“Jesus, do you not care that my relationship is in tatters?”
But there is more to the story.
“Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.”
Mark 4:39 NIV
Jesus didn’t join them in their fear. Instead, He looked right at the storm and brought calm. Then, He asked His disciples why they were so afraid: “Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:40).
Have you ever faced a challenge so massive, it threatened to overwhelm you? It can be disorienting, terrifying, heartbreaking, even, when the storm sets in and everything suddenly feels bleak in the face of such a strong force against us.
But God went with the disciples because He cared about them. He goes with you because He cares about you.
What storm are you facing today? Take a moment to close your eyes and imagine Jesus, unafraid of the storm, bringing everything to a calm. He is with you. You are not alone in this storm.
Truth Changes Everything
Think about the best news you've ever received in your life. Maybe it was a doctor walking into a waiting room and saying, "The surgery went perfectly." Maybe it was a phone call that said, "You got the job." Maybe it was two lines on a pregnancy test you'd been praying for.
Good news changes everything.
But none of those moments, as incredible as they are, even come close to the truth delivered on the first Easter morning:
"He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay."
Matthew 28:6 (NIV)
Jesus had been crucified publicly, brutally, and officially. He was wrapped, sealed in a tomb. There was no question. Jesus was dead. It was true.
But when His followers Mary and Mary Magdalene arrived to grieve? The stone was rolled away. The tomb was empty. And an angel met them with the most stunning announcement in human history.
But the angel doesn’t just tell the women the truth. He invites them to look for themselves. To step inside. To experience the...