| But when they [the disciples] saw him [Jesus] walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.” |
| —Mark 6:49-50 |
The New Testament records a number of incidents in the life of Jesus that stand out as reminders of the key principles of our walk with Him. These incidents have many parallels in similar circumstances that occur in our daily lives.
One of the more dramatic examples takes place on the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Lake of Gennesaret:
Jesus has sent his disciples on ahead in a boat. As they cross the water, a storm quickly arises—a frequent occurrence on this large lake. The disciples become terrified that the boat will capsize in the rough, wind-blown water and they will drown. Then, they see what at first appears to be an apparition approaching their vessel, walking on top of the water.
This sets the stage for what the Scripture records in Mark 6:49-50:
But when they [the disciples] saw him [Jesus] walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.”
This real-life event gives us many parallels in our daily lives. All too often, we may find ourselves surrounded by “high waves” and experience being tossed about by the “storms of life.” We need to remember that in our most difficult hour, Jesus will come to us. He will speak words of comfort and assurance. He will remind us that He is always with us. He will gently and tenderly speak words into the ear of our heart, telling us that His Holy Spirit is guiding us, caring for us, and loving us.
As we begin yet another day, let’s remember that, no matter how difficult the circumstances of our lives may seem, we are never alone. God is with us. He will see us through the “storms of life” and bring us safely to that distant shore.
Based on a blog originally posted on Thursday, August 31, 2017
