Moment With The Master
“Jesus in the Boat”
Categories: Moment With The MasterSo the men marveled, saying, "Who can this be, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?" (Matthew 8:27)
The surrounding context reveals one of Jesus’ most striking miracles. The Lord and his disciples entered the boat looking for retirement from the crowd. Suddenly a storm arose and the boat was tossed and covered with waves. But, Jesus slept.
Out of despair the disciples awoke the Master and cried to him for help. It seems strange to me that these who have been masters of the sea, would make such a request from the son of a carpenter. They did not realize the fullness of his power, but they trusted him as a child would trust a parent when the lightning flashes and thunder rolls.
Jesus gently rebukes his disciples for their lack of faith. Perhaps it was their impatience that manifested their doubt. Then, Jesus calmly arose and rebuked the elements, and suddenly there was calm. The Lord’s slumber demonstrates his complete control of the moment. Even in the midst of chaos Jesus is still ruling this world. Who is this one who has such power? He is God’s son. He is the Creator and Provider of this marvelous world.
This life is full of unrest, disappointments, and worries. Is Jesus in the boat? Does He care? Such challenges often test our faith. It may seem like Jesus is asleep, but he is present and he does care indeed! The outward life may be full of cares, but in the heart of the Christian there is peace.
Christ is never negligent of his people. He may seem to delay, but at the right moment he will do what is needed. The words of M.A. Baker in this well known hymn convey these sentiments:
“Master the tempest is raging! The billows are tossing high!
The sky is o’shadowed with blackness, No shelter or help is nigh;
Carest Thou not that we perish? How canst Thou lie asleep,
When each moment so madly is threat’ning A grave in the angry deep?
The winds and the waves shall obey Thy will, Peace be still! Peace be still!
Whether the wrath of the stormed-tossed sea, Or demons or men, or whatever it be, No waters can swallow the ship where lies The Master of ocean and earth and skies! They all shall sweetly obey Thy will. Peace be still! Peace be still!
They all shall sweetly obey thy will, Peace, peace, be still!
By George Slover
