Rest in Jesus

Jesus and the disciples were on the sea in a boat (Mark 4:35-41 ESV).  A great windstorm arose.  The disciples were scared.  They woke up Jesus: "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?"  That is what we call a dumb question.  Of course He cares.

Jesus rebuked the wind and asked them a question, “Have you still no faith?"  Without faith, we have no rest, no peace, only fear and failure and peril in the storms of life.  Jesus came to bring us peace though faith in Him that holds onto the very righteousness of God.  His victory was the cross.  Faith brings forgiveness.  In the darkest hour, we have hope and joy, knowing our sins are forgiven and that God promises us heaven.

The disciples literally brought the Word of God with them, but they were not relying upon His promises.  They looked to creation and not to the creator.  And when we look at creation, we can really become scared.

What scares you and keeps you up at night?  Health problems, finances, safety, outliving your friends, finding a job, conflict in relationships, global warming, terrorists?  You do not have to wake up Jesus.  He is already awake and aware of your problems and fears.

Have faith.  Pray. Give Him all of your fears and cares and problems.  “What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!”

Rest in Jesus.  Amen.

Raymond Van Buskirk, Pastor, Redeemer Lutheran Church

Baytown, Texas          www.rlcbaytown.org                 6/21/2009