The disciples were terrified and amazed, “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!” Luke 8:25 (NLT)
One day, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger. The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly, the storm stopped and all was calm. Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?” The disciples were terrified and amazed, “Who is this man?” they asked each other. Luke 8:22-25 (NLT)
Several thoughts came to my mind as I read this passage. These disciples had been with Jesus for a while. They ate with him, slept alongside him, walked with him, and observed him. They watched him heal the sick, set many free from demons, and listened many times as he taught the people. They chose to leave their old life, because they knew there was something different about him. But somehow, the realization of how serious this storm was and the aftermath of Jesus calming the storm caused them ask this question? “Who is this man?” Jesus revealed a side of Himself, that amazed and terrified his closes friends, and it was revealed openly because of this terrifying storm.
This storm was fierce, even for the experienced sailors. The boat was filling with water and they believed they were in danger of losing their lives. I think it can be the same with us, when we encounter death or life experiences. We can discover in new ways “who this man really is?”
I enjoy watching natural storms from the safety of my home, but walking through life’s storms is another matter. To be honest, I try to avoid them! But, they still happen. Most of the other stories, up to this point in Luke’s gospel are about what Jesus did for others. We find his disciples watching from the outside. This story became real. I think it is the same for us. It is when we feel overwhelmed and maybe even fear for our lives that we can discover more about this man we call our Savior.
When troubles arise, it is often when the relationship is tested. Does doubt, fear and uncertainty rob us of our trust with the Lord when we encounter troubles? Or do we run to Him, trusting He understands, even when we don’t. Often, the lessons we learn come after the storm is over. We can then see His faithfulness in ways that we may have missed during the storm.
As a child, they taught me about my need for a Savior and that Jesus was His name. I believed and received Him into my life when I was nine years old. Then, I began to know Him as a friend and confidant. He became the one I shared my joys, sorrows and dreams with. I was so grateful that I had someone I could tell my disappointments to–and still do, today!
Growing older, there came a time where I was confronted with His Lordship. Was I going to allow Him to become Lord of my life? This challenged me to learn about this “man” in some new ways. Did I trust Him to know what was best for me? Would I allow Him to lead and guide me, even when I didn’t want to walk His path? I learned that He is good, and His ways are good. His thoughts are higher than my thoughts, and His ways higher than my ways.
It was the biggest storm in my life that helped me learn even more about this “man”. When my husband suffered a heart attack and major stroke, I learned more deeply of His faithfulness, mercy, supply, grace and wisdom. As I turned to Him, even when I was struggling, He was there. Walking as a caregiver for two and half years was not my plan. But it was His, and again it was hard, but worked out for good.
Living life as a widow has not been easy. But, I have learned more about this “man” because of necessity. He truly has become “a husband to this widow”. Dear Ones, if the storms of life are blowing strong in your world, take time to look for Him in the midst. You may feel, like these disciples, that He is asleep and unaware of how dangerous things are, but He is not. His response to them, “Where is your faith?” maybe that is what He is asking of us, as we navigate our storms! (A possible topic of another blog!). But, turn to Him and He will show you a side of Himself that can only come from walking with Him through these storms. Jesus longs to share Himself with us. He is more than a “man”, He is Lord of Lords, King of Kings, Prince of Peace, the Lamb of God, the Living Water, the Bread of Life, the Good Shepherd and so many more–are there any of these areas you need to learn about Him? Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light. Matthew 11:28-30 NLT. Do not let pride and arrogance tell you, Oh, I already know all about Him…I guarantee you don’t!
Father, help us turn to You in our storms. Show us more of You and Your ways. Help us to come to You to learn from You personally. Reveal Yourself in Your Word and show us Your ways, for they are good, even when our troubles are not. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Faith Encounters 