Sinking Boat

Oh, I thought I had all the answers. After all, I was an adult, educated, experienced in several jobs, and an independent person. How hard could it be to cross from one shore to the other? The feat looked so easy assuming that the environment would stay exactly the same.

Paddling was simple at first. But as the horizon became bleak with troubling clouds, I lost sight of all that was familiar. Thunder bellowed over me with threats of violence in every direction. My small rowboat fought against the boiling water trickling over the edge. Within a short time, my world totally changed. No longer was I confident in safely navigating my way through. Overwhelmed, depressed and lost, I could see no path through the rising waves of disease and anger. So, I dropped the oars and sat still.

Holy One, will you step on the boat with me? Like you did with the disciples on the Sea of Galilee?

I’ve wondered, Jesus, why were you going to pass them by? Like a good shepherd, were you circling your flock insuring their safety? Or like a parent hearing whimpering down the hall on a stormy night, were you checking on your dependent ones? Whatever your reason was, your action shows committed love and concern for your friends. I am counting on your help, too.

“Later that night, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he (Jesus Christ) was alone on the 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 (the disciples) 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.” Mark 6:47-50

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given you.” James 1:5

“For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” 2 Chronicles 16:9

Holy One, will you step in the floundering little boat with me? I am scared of the sights and sounds in this darker world and need you. Enrich my mind with your wisdom and enhance my strength with your grit. Help me to reflect your personality by the way I react to harsh circumstances . Would you give me eyes to see how physically close you are? Because I know that with you beside me, I will feel your peace surround me in this turmoil.By your grace I ask this in the name of God’s Perfect Son and according to your perfect will. Amen

Bible verses are taken from the New International Version unless otherwise noted