Notes on the Storm

Today we watch the first snowfall of the season. How lightly it floats down, belying the violent hail storm that just passed. Thank God for the break in the drought and the shelter He gives in the storm.
In another sense, we really are in a scary storm. The screaming wind and violent waves threaten to kill us. On top of that we are called to walk right upon those crashing waters.
Lord, save us!
We pass this reminder along: God does not hold our fears and doubts against us. When Peter challenged Jesus walking on the water, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water," Jesus did not reprimand him for skepticism, or presumption. He simply said "Come!"
After Peter actually walked on the water, then was intimidated by the storm and sank, Jesus did not say,
"Go on and drown. I gave you a chance and you doubted. It's your own fault. You shouldn't have tried the impossible!"
No. Instead of the "every-man-for-himself" attitude, Jesus shot his hand forward and caught Peter. And he was not berating Peter with his statement "Oh you little faith . . ." Jesus used this as a teachable moment to comment on the kind of faith Peter had right then as he helped him into the boat and caused the storm to cease. (Matthew 14:22-33)
As the financial storm rages around us we panic and sink over and over. Jesus has to be there to catch us each time,or we will drown alone. Even among well-meaning friends we often feel alone in the storm because everyone seems powerless and no one knows what to do.
We must habitually react by crying out like Peter, "Lord, save me!"
In whatever form it comes we grab the hand extended, pull up and get our footing again, walking with Jesus on the water.
Will you consider being part of Jesus' extended hand to us as we fight the waves on the mission to which Christ calls us?

Yours on the water,

Mark and Donna Turner