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John 6:16-21

They did not see it coming. It was but a short boat ride on moon-lit calm waters. A long day first meant to be a mini-vacation turned into a meal to be served to 1000s. Now finally they would be able to relax in familiar settings. Rowing was second nature to most of them and mindless activity. So they would spend the hour or so discussing what had just happened and what it all must mean.

  • Their “success” on their first real missional endeavors
  • The untimely and cruel murder of the great John the Baptist
  • The interrupted day off with the Master in that remote place
  • What it felt like to take a basket of bread to hungry people and return with it empty only to find out there was more to fill it again!
  • The relief to discover that their was still enough for each of them to eat
  • Then the moment long awaited, the excitement of the crowds cheering for Jesus to become their King
  • What to make of Jesus throwing a wet-blanket on the whole event by refusing the peoples’ demands
  • And what of His INSISTING they get into the boat a leave?! ☹

So much to process together! But at least the moon was full, the waters calm, and the gentle splash of the oars in the hands of skillful boatsmen would bring some sense of calming reality.

It wasn’t anything that at least many of them had not previously experienced. The winds would suddenly rush down the canyons on the slopes surrounding the lake and whip up massive waves. No need for panic. With clear minds and strong backs, they turn the boat into the waves and row a bit more aggressively. But six hours later, they were further from their destination than when they had launched. It was dark. The seas were treacherous. They were exhausted. And no hope was to be found. “It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them.” John 6:17

They did not see it coming. But Jesus did! “Immediately He made His disciples get into the boat and go before to the other side!” Mark 6:45 He MADE them go! Literally, He yelled at them sternly and said, “You men get into that boat and get going!!!” And the Master SENT them into the teeth of the storm. Hmmm…

  • Storms are never surprises to Jesus
  • Storms are real and are scary
  • Storms are Divine training exercises for increasing our faith
  • Storms are God’s call to us to turn completely to Jesus
  • Storms are reminders that we are NEVER alone

You will always find that you are with Jesus when you find yourself in the middle of a storm!

See you Sunday, Church!<br.< Pastor Tom