Scripture

Then they were willing to take him onto the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.

Observation

At evening time the disciples cross the lake in a boat. A storm rises up and they have to strain to row.

After some time, Jesus comes to them walking on the water. At first they are terrified, but Jesus tells them not to be afraid. They let Him on board, and immediately they arrive at their destination.

The next morning, the crowds discover that Jesus and the disciples are missing, and so they head off to Capernaum by boat.

Application

The disciples find themselves on a boat on the water without Jesus at night. In John’s gospel the night time represents the world that is not surrendered to God, that is satan’s realm.

When Jesus comes on to the boat, He immediately calms the storm and the boat arrives at its destination.

When I try to control my “boat”, that is my life, it all gets very chaotic. Like the disciples rowing, I can work hard and not make much progress. Satan will resist me at every turn.

When Christ is on board, my life has purpose and direction, and satan’s resistance starts to be overcome.

It is not always effortless, even when Christ is steering my boat. Sometimes it seems that satanic efforts to impede me just increase. Even so, I need to obey Christ’s command, “Do not be afraid.”

The storm will subside. The boat will arrive at its destination. As long as Christ is the captain of my life.

Prayer

Thank you Lord for the knowledge that you are in control. Even in the greatest storm I can know your peace. Help me to surrender control to you so that I can know your direction and your assurance. Amen.