THE OTHER SIDE
And when Jesus saw great multitudes about Him,
He gave a command to depart to the other side. –Matt. 8:18
After much time with the multitudes, healing the sick, Jesus commanded the disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee to the other side. This account continues in verse 23, as they get into the boat. Suddenly, a great storm arose. Storms are common on the Sea of Galilee. Most of the disciples were fishermen, and they were accustomed to storms. However, this storm frightened them greatly as the boat began to take on water.
Jesus, fully man and fully God, was tired, and He was sleeping. The cries of the disciples awoke Him, and He calmed the storm.
Why did Jesus command them to cross over with a storm in their path? He is omniscient – knowing all things. Why does He allow storms into our lives?
Obviously, the disciples needed stronger faith. In Matthew 8:26, Jesus said, “Why are you fearful, O you of Little faith?” The same question could be asked of us. Why are we fearful? Jesus Christ is with each of us just as He was in that boat with the disciples.
The disciples had been with Jesus witnessing many miracles. Yet, they were amazed when He calmed the winds and waves. Perhaps, they realized that only the Creator could control the creation.
History tells us that each one of the disciples was severely persecuted. As they faced their enemies, surely they remembered that stormy night. They remembered that they were not alone for Jesus was with them. They remembered His power and His miracles. The same is true for believers today. We can look back to times that Jesus has brought us through the stormy nights, and that reminder will calm our fears.
Jesus will allow storms to cross our paths. Do not fear, He is right there in the storm with us, and we will make it safely to the other side.
Copyright 2013 Carolyn Dale Newell.
A Mountain of Faith 