“When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, 17 where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. 18 A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. 19 When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. 20 But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” 21 Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.” John 6:16-21 NIV
Lord of all creation,
We know many of these events of Your earthly life so well, we almost glide over then sometimes.. Yet here we glimpse Your divine Son Jesus walking on water in a strong wind. Never mind that there are those who mock this passage. And Jesus had just removed the disciples from the miraculously fed crowd who were turning into more of a political mob. Possibly causing trouble that could get them arrested! (John 6:15).
Jesus must have told them to set off across the lake without Him. Or they would not have gone. But the truth is they were never out of His sight or away from His care. Sometimes You do send us into choppy circumstances but we too are never out of Your sight or Your care. You are faithful. But knowing You near or with us does not mean we will always have gentle breezes, still waters and pastures green (Psalm 23). It is not because we lack faith or have not prayed hard enough or claimed Bible verses. Sometimes the wind just blows and we have to row hard.
But never out of Your sight, never beyond Your care. You are faithful, You never leave us or forsake us. And because they were listening to Your direction, they made their destination. Help me to know the times when I need to keep rowing a bit longer and ask You to help.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Lord of all creation,
For our family, friends, neighbours.
For our Ministers, lay leaders, church members.
For our king and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For all those preparing for the Paris Olympics. Behand the scenes and those who will take part.
For Gaza, Middle East, continuing successful peace talks.
Ukraine. Send a miracle, an end to war.
For fishermen, ferry workers and food container ships.
For Life Boat crews.
For manual labourers, builders, engineers.
For a good day at work, at home, with friends or to help someone else. Even if the wind blows.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen
Worship Monday 15th July 2024
My go to song, to sing to remind myself He will hold me fast.
When I fear my faith will fail
Christ will hold me fast
When the tempter would prevail
He will hold me fast
I could never keep my hold
Through life’s fearful path
For my love is often cold
He must hold me fast
He will hold me fast
He will hold me fast
For my Savior loves me so
He will hold me fast
Those He saves are His delight
Christ will hold me fast
Precious in His holy sight
He will hold me fast
He’ll not let my soul be lost
His promises shall last
Bought by Him at such a cost
He will hold me fast
For my life He bled and died
Christ will hold me fast
Justice has been satisfied
He will hold me fast
Raised with Him to endless life
He will hold me fast
Till our faith is turned to sight
When he comes at last
Lyrics: Matthew Sherman Merker