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Memory Verse: ‘They were all terrified when they saw him. But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage! I am here!” Then he climbed into the boat, and the wind stopped. They were totally amazed,’’ Mark 6:50-51(NLT)
These times have brought so many hardships to the world, nations and individuals, causing great concerns, requiring us to examine our lives and relationship with God.
The disciples of Jesus were on a boat crossing the lake to go on to Bethsaida. Jesus had earlier told them to get into the boat and head out across the lake, while He stayed back to send the people home.Recall that this was immediately after Jesus fed five thousand men from five loaves of bread and two fishes in verses 10 to 44. I reckon, the disciples embarked on the journey across the lake in high spirits and great euphoria! However, their enthusiasm soon evaporated and turned into great fear and worry when their boat encountered winds and waves in the middle of the lake. They appeared to be in serious trouble and danger, because the wind and waves threatened to topple their boat.
Many times, in our lives we encounter headwinds that give us a lot of trouble and trepidation. Similarly, the world and nations often encounter issues that give great concerns and threaten to wipe out many people of the world. Such issues can include economic problems, security issues, political turmoil, marital problems, concerns with our health, issues with our children etc. Like the disciples in the middle of the lake, we will get rightly worried and may feel all hope is lost. The message this month comes to assure and give us hope and rest. When the disciples encountered their problems on the lake, the Bible tells us that Jesus ‘… saw that they were in serious trouble, rowing hard and struggling against the wind and waves, (Mark 6:48). Then He came right on the scene, but they did not recognize Him, and as He was walking past them, they were afraid and screamed in terror, thinking He was a ghost. Then Jesus spoke to them to calm down, saying ‘It is alright,” …… “I am here! Don’t be afraid’ ’Then he climbed into the boat, and the wind stopped.’ (Mark 6:50b – 51a)
Therefore, in our period of turmoil and trepidation, Jesus is here reassuring us that he will not leave nor pass us by. He is inside our boat, on our side, the storm and wind buffeting us will cease. We should exercise great faith and be assured that Jesus is on our case. The Bible says that ‘If we havefaith in God, we ‘can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart, (Mark 11:22-23). Therefore, let us keep the faith, not doubting, but hold on and stand still. We shall surely see the glory of God, in Jesus mighty name.
May the Lord bless and keep you. May He make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you, May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace, now and forevermore. Amen.Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your great love and compassion, which never fail. Merciful Father please continue to renew them day by day in my life, because great is your faithfulness. Amen.
©Bola Olowe, Grace Leadership Foundation. Friday 1, March 2024._______________________________________________
This month, you will overcome by the blood of the lamb and word of your testimony. It shall indeed be your month of marching forward unto greater heights in all areas of life, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Savour. Amen.
