How God speaks “more” into our “less”

Amidst the confusion and fear of the coronavirus, a truth emerges that we have known along: we cannot control everything.

Waves of panic flood through us when we encounter that reality. Fear permeates in the air. As we inhale the heavy air, our lungs struggle to regain their regular rhythm. How will I survive this storm? Where do I seek refuge?

The disciples knew a bit about feeling helpless.

“One day he and his disciples got in a boat. “Let’s cross the lake,” he said. And off they went. It was smooth sailing, and he fell asleep. A terrific storm came up suddenly on the lake. Water poured in, and they were about to capsize. They woke Jesus: “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” Luke 8:22-23

Storms were nothing new. But being trapped on the water in one? Terrifying. How will we survive this storm? Where do we seeks refuge? Left to our their own minds, hopelessness blew with a powerful force.

But they weren’t alone.

“Getting to his feet, he told the wind, “Silence!” and the waves, “Quiet down!” They did it. The lake became smooth as glass.” Luke 8:24

The storm calmed. But that really wasn’t the point. The one who has that kind of authority had not left their side. And never would. Then he said to his disciples, “Why can’t you trust me?” Luke 8:25

We live in a broken world. Escape from the pains in this place is not guaranteed. In our moments of panic, our desire to control our circumstances kicks in. And sometimes we realize we can’t. We simply have less control than we want to acknowledge. But Jesus meets us there. In the storms. And the voice that can silence the raging winds can make us “unshakeable.”

“I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.” John 16:33.

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