Rowing on Rough Waters

When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, 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. A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” 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


I wonder how the disciples were feeling as they were rowing in the lake, in the dark with the waters getting rough and Jesus nowhere in sight. How long did it take them to row three or four miles? I imagine it was plenty of time to consider and create scenarios in their minds of what could happen to them. With their minds filled with possible disasters, they then see Jesus and in their already anxious state they are afraid.

When something happens that is unexpected, it can be frightening—a diagnosis, a loss, or any situation that seems to come out from the blue. We may feel alone. But the truth is that we are not—Jesus is there. He doesn’t want us to be fearful, but just to trust in him. Like the disciples, invite Jesus into your “boat” and let them take over. He knows the way to go to reach the shore of peace.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for being there when I am frightened. I pray that my focus stays on you and not on the situations that seem to surround me. Amen

Faith Tip: Something upsetting your boat today? Look out on the water of your life because Jesus is walking to you. Invite him in.

Written by Kathy Bruins