Mark 6: 45-56
“Later that night, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them,but when they saw him 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.” Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed,for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.”
Sometimes, things come into our lives (good or bad) like a strong wind in a storm. It rocks our very foundation, and we lose our footings. Jesus’ disciples knew this sensation – and on this day, they knew it all too well.
Most of the 12 were fishermen, and it seems that they were out getting a late- night catch. But a storm blew in, and from where He was praying, Jesus could see the whole thing. Not surprising. You don’t need to be very far up the hillsides that surround the Sea of Galilee to be able to see the whole thing. (Picture the sides of a teacup, and that’s essential the shape of terrain here.) Note the phrasing here: note the contrast between the disciples “in the middle of the lake” without Jesus and Jesus “alone on the land”, gone up on the mountain to pray. The crowds had dissipated, and they had returned to the work they always knew, and Jesus had taken time to talk with God, the Father.
It’s in Jesus’ response to their cries that they learn that they are not forsaken, that the Lord watches over them unseen. We should never be afraid of any danger, knowing that Jesus watches over me with loving compassion. When the apostles cried out something happened. It seemed to be like that with them – they were able to let their fear and terror out, and let Jesus know how they felt and their danger. Most of Jesus’ signs and miracles happen when someone or a group asks with the heart. He is no magician, easy gift giver. We interact with Jesus through faith.
When we really ask for something, something always happens. What do you really want to ask Him for in prayer? What storm in life needs calming? In your life or in another’s? We know and believe that no prayer is unheard but that something good happens in our life when we speak to Jesus from the heart. Either things will change, or we will. Are you prepared to let either of those things happen? Call out, He’s ready to be with you.
Joyfully Yours 