Friday, February 19

by Peg Strite, Deacon

A number of years ago, on a trip to Israel, our tour group spent the night in Tiberias, a city on the West side of the Sea of Galilee. Earlier that day, a storm had brought waves crashing up along the shore, and some of the roads were flooded. Folks were driving down as close as possible to see the unusual event. We were told that our planned boat trip from Tiberias to Capernaum would be cancelled.

I always think of that experience when I read or hear the story in Matthew 8:23-27 about Jesus calming the storm on that very sea. His followers were afraid, crying "Lord save us. We are perishing." But Jesus said to them, "Why are you afraid, you of little faith?"

That's the most important message in the story, I think. Jesus seems almost surprised by their fear. After all, He is with them. Why should they be afraid?

Looking out our hotel window the morning after the storm, we could see that the sea was as smooth as glass. For me, that was a reminder of Jesus' calm, reassuring presence, and of how faith in that presence can fill our lives with peace, comfort, and strength.

Loving God, we give thanks for your presence in our lives each day. Strengthen our faith and remind us that Jesus is with us even in the midst of our fears. In His name we pray... Amen.