The Perfect Storm
Matthew 14:22-23
In 2000, the movie “The Perfect Storm” was created staring George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Diane Lane and others. A commercial tuna boat encounters all the wrong weather conditions and ends up capsizing in the Atlantic Ocean. That seems to be the case for most of us as we face social, political, economic, religious and even Tropical Depression “Cristobal” in America. The protests as the result of the death of George Floyd, the increasing divide between political parties, the loss of millions of jobs, the closing of churches and the home schooling of our children all provide a Perfect Storm that has overwhelmed us all.
In Matthew 14, Jesus and the disciples were experiencing troubled times. They had just received word of the death of John the Baptist, healed the sick, fed 5,000 men women and children and were emotionally and physically exhausted. What was to be a time of relaxation and recovery in the wilderness became an opportunity for ministry. Jesus sent his disciples to the other side of the lake while he remained to pray and spend time with the Father. On that journey the wind increased and the water became choppy, not allowing them to get anywhere in their small boat. They were afraid the boat would capsize and they would drown.
In the early morning, Jesus came to them walking on the water. In the dim light they thought it was a ghost and became more frightened. But Jesus stretched out his hand and said, “Take courage, do not be afraid, come.” Peter stepped out of the boat and came to Jesus, but in fear he began to sink. Jesus took his hand and walked with him to the safety of the boat. Jesus spoke and the wind died down and the sea became calm. In the light of a new day and the calm of the moment, the disciples worshiped Him.
In the middle of this “Perfect Storm,” we may feel like we don’t have a lot of control, and we may even feel afraid. But Jesus says, “Come to me and I will give you rest,” and He reaches out His hand to steady us and guide us to safety. It is for us to cast our eyes on him and to let go of our fear and trust him in the storm, knowing that He can, with one word, calm the storm. Let us worship Him, whether virtually, at Cool Spring on June 21 or in the privacy of your quiet place.
That’s the view from my backyard!
Wayne Smith
