
I’m sure everyone has witnessed a scene on television when there’s a battle, a storm, or some other chaos causing objects to fly through the air. Then the main character will be walking through the havoc with a serene smile, like nothing is out of the ordinary. Not a single one of the potential hazards comes close to even touching the hero, who seems to be protected by an indestructible bubble.
This is sort of how I imagine it looked when Jesus came walking out to the disciples on the sea, except that this incident was not fiction. Waves were crashing, the water was splashing, the boat was turning every way but the right way. Then here comes Jesus, maybe walking as steady as if He were on a sidewalk. I wonder if He was even touched by a drop of water?! Having witnessed such a demonstration of power and peace, it’s no wonder that those on the boat thought Jesus was a spirit!
There have been times in my own life when I’ve felt like everything around me is twirling in a cyclone. Like when Little Bit is having a meltdown and cannot be settled, no matter what I try. Or when one of my classes at school is so wired, it’s impossible for them to all listen at the same time. Or when unexpected tragedy strikes, and no one knows what to do.
Sometimes, in these circumstances, I find myself reeling, along with everyone else, not knowing which way is up. The human that is me just contributes to the confusion and loses all sense of direction or ease.
But other times, I feel enveloped by the Calm in the midst of the storm. I can almost see the debris swirling around, but not even grazing me, as I face life’s challenges in the strength of the Lord. I do not possess this calm within my own nature. The peace “which passeth all understanding” only comes from God. And the more I seek Him in my life, the more tranquility I will both experience and be able to share with those in need.