John 6:16-21 CSB
When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, [17] got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. Darkness had already set in, but Jesus had not yet come to them. [18] A high wind arose, and the sea began to churn. [19] After they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea. He was coming near the boat, and they were afraid. [20] But he said to them, "It is I. Don't be afraid." [21] Then they were willing to take him on board, and at once the boat was at the shore where they were heading.
Lamentations 3:22-23 CSB
Because of the LORD's faithful love we do not perish, for his mercies never end. [23] They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness!
Calms the Storm
The sea can be a calm companion, with a gentle wind rippling the surface, or it can be a violent foe. In a storm, waves often reach higher than the mast of a ship, the ship riding in the deep troughs created by the angry water. The disciples were caught in such a moment.
The sea is even more dangerous when the sun sets; the sound of rushing waves hits the hull as waves billow overhead. Fierce winds spray water into your face while the darkness obscures your vision. The disciples strained at the oars, only to find themselves stuck in the middle of their journey.
Life can be exactly like this. We face seasons when life hits us hard and the waves keep coming. Everything around us feels dark, and we find ourselves straining at the oars just to hopefully reach land and find a respite. In those moments, all our efforts seem meaningless. It is hard to let go, to accept the unknown, and to put our total faith in Christ.
Like the journey of life, the Sea of Galilee is known for its sudden, violent storms. The widest point of the sea is approximately eight miles, meaning the disciples had likely rowed four to five miles through the dark mist. I can see the apprehension on the faces of these seasoned sailors. They weren’t in full dread yet, but they knew the danger. However, what happened next was entirely unexpected: someone was walking on the water, showing absolute control over the sea. In the face of that unknown power, apprehension turned to dread.
But Jesus said, “It is I. Don’t be afraid.” The text suggests a double miracle: not only was Jesus walking on the water, but as soon as they were willing to take Him on board, the boat reached its destination immediately.
Our lives are like this boat. Can we let go of the oars and let Jesus be our pilot? Can we trust Him when things look hard—or even hopeless?
We know from Lamentations that the Lord’s love for us is faithful. He will not abandon us; He is there in the storms of life. Just as Jesus withdrew to pray to the Father before this event, we are taught to pray. We must take our troubles to the Father, trusting that He will make all things right in His perfect timing.
Reflection Questions
- Where in your life are you currently “straining at the oars,” trying to reach the shore by your own strength?
- The disciples were afraid of Jesus before they recognized Him. Is there a “storm” in your life right now where Jesus might be present, but you haven’t recognized Him yet?
- What does it look like for you to let Jesus be the “pilot” of your current situation rather than just an extra passenger?
Prayer
Father,
Thank You that Your mercies are new every morning and that Your faithfulness is great, even when the waves are high. Forgive me for the times I try to row through the storm alone, relying on my own strength until I am exhausted. Help me to recognize Your voice above the sound of the billowing waves. I invite You to take control today. Take the lead and bring me to the shore where You would have me be.
Amen.
