One of our radios has been well-used. Perhaps it is tired. It
doesn’t always respond when the ON button is depressed. Usually, eventually, it
does, but then there is much interference.
Sometimes, my ON button is depressed and receives too much of
the trials and tribulations of the world. Like Peter on the water, my eyes can
stray from focusing on Jesus to a greater awareness of the foaming turbulence
of the waters of the world. Fears can unsettle me and as my toes feel wet and I
cry out, ‘Help!’, Jesus takes my hand, draws me near, and encourages me.
‘Why are you afraid?’ he asks.
We have lived in a period of relative peace – at least, I
know I have been privileged to have. Perhaps I have become complacent in
expecting that this relative peace is the norm. I am aware now, as storms rage
globally and the horizon is darkening, that a peaceful few decades is the
exception in this world, not the norm.
And so, I am grateful to those saints who have gone before.
Like Watchman Nee, who I heard about this morning. Saints who have accepted
that ‘in this world you will have trouble.’ Saints whose faith rested firmly in
the One who has overcome this world.
‘Do not be afraid, for I am with you.’
Lord Jesus, keep my eyes fixed on you as I step out of the
boat and into my day.
