But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” 51 And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded, 52 for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened.
Kids are scared of non-existent monsters and ghosts. There is a theological truth in this somewhere for another time. But more strangely, we are not afraid if we are not alone, as if the 6 year old next to you can defeat a monster. That is why, even as adults, these words from Jesus are so comforting. Deep down we know that if we are not alone, we will be okay. The disciples thought they had seen a ghost walking on the water but it was the Lord. “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” It probably was not until he got in the boat with them that their fear subsided, along with the wind.
There are strong winds in our world today that swirl and destroy. These winds are more dangerous than imaginary ghosts. If we are alone, we are vulnerable. That is why we cannot be alone. This week, we will gather together to give thanks. Let us also gather together to worship the Lord in church.
Let us also in our daily walk in these winds, never cease to cry out to the Lord, to walk with us. He will get in the boat with you. Take heart and do not be afraid. Jesus is with you when you fight real and imaginary forces. The same Lord who fed the 5,000 and walked on water can save you from whatever monster is lurking. With Jesus in the boat, the fear will subside and…
The wind will cease.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church