“It is I, do not be afraid.” John 6:20 [NIV]
If you have time, read the full passage: John 6:16-21
Right now there are many people in our country fearful about the damage caused by the recent storms and floods. Suddenly they have new challenges to face, life feels very testing and in the midst of uncertainty they feel vulnerable and small. Whether we are affected by the wind and rain or the storms of life, all of us have moments of feeling small and anxious.
The disciples in our Bible passage probably felt small as they sat in that boat, and who can blame them? It was dark and a strong wind was blowing so the waters became rough. They rowed three or four miles so we can guess they were also feeling rather weary. The disciples saw Jesus walking on the water and were afraid. But Jesus intervened and spoke into their panic: “It is I, do not be afraid.” Can we hear these words of Jesus being spoken to us today? What are the situations where you need to remember that Jesus is near? What fears or burdens do you need to give him?
What interests me about this passage is that it is after hearing the words of Jesus, the disciples were willing to take him in their boat. They needed to know first that it was him they were seeing and on being assured of his presence they let him in. When they were willing to take him in, Jesus could bring change to their situation and immediately they reached the shore.
Reflection: Can I catch myself today in moments when I feel small and vulnerable and remember the words of Jesus, ‘it is I, do not be afraid.’
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I pray today for those in our country who have been affected by the recent weather. We pray that they would know you intervention and peace. Please help me in moments when I feel small to know your presence and peace. Give me a heart that is willing to take you into the challenges I face as the disciples were willing to take you into their boat. Amen.
Hannah Mears
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