When Fear Overwhelms

Luke 8:22-24
One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side of the lake.” So, they got into a boat and set out. As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger.

The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”

He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples.

Lake Erie tossed and turned.

The waves rose and crashed after tornados had attacked the northeastern shores. Tim and I happened to spend a few days at the lake, in Marblehead, after some tough storms went through the area. We watched the water rise and wash the shore like hands reaching to grasp whatever the waves could steal.

The next day, a sailboat ventured onto calmer, yet choppy waters. The boat bobbed up and down and I thought, if I were on it, I might be seasick.

The Sea of Galilee tossed a boat around when Jesus and some of his disciples sailed. Jesus fell asleep and the storm frightened the men. When Jesus woke and settled the waters, he asked, “Where is your faith?”

I may not sail in a boat, but it seems like storms attack our shores too often. A spiritual battle rages around us as good and evil fight for dominance. When fear overwhelms, Jesus asks, “Where is your faith?”

It’s then I understand, this life was not meant to be lived alone. Yes, I’m surrounded by friends and family, but I need more. I need Jesus. I don’t want him to wonder where my faith is. I want him to know my faith remains in him, every day.

When life rocks the boat, and even when it doesn’t cling to Jesus. Have faith in the one who makes a difference.