I just read Mark 6:45-50 and it is just after Jesus fed the 5000 with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish. Jesus sent His disciples across the lake to Bethsaida and Jesus went to be alone and pray. Jesus then sensed that they were in trouble, in the middle of the lake, fighting against the wind, so He walked out to them, however Jesus did not walk up and say ‘Hey fellas, need some help?’, they had to actually see Him and acknowledge Him. The end of verse 48 says that He started to go past them.
Now, back to our present day. I have thought lately that I think if I would just tune in to God and acknowledge Him and allow Him to lead me that I would see so much more of where He is taking me. It’s also easy to read the gospels and mock question the disciples for being terrified when they saw Him walking past their boat. They even thought He was a ghost! C’mon, guys! You have the unique privilege to walk with Christ and your hearts are still hardened to the Truth. It helps that we are able to read about these things after the fact and we know how the story ends.
Yet, how often am I in a difficult situation, handling it the best I can and the Holy Spirit is right there, available and wanting to help me, and I don’t even see Him or at least acknowledge Him!
Ok, back to the lake. Even after they screamed in terror, they didn’t ask Him for help, at least it doesn’t indicate that they did. Jesus just said ‘it’s ok, don’t be afraid, I am here.’ and He climbed in the boat. Instantly, the wind stopped.
I wonder how often Jesus has walked past me in a situation and I don’t even see Him?
Awesome post, my friend. Jesus is right there. Are we paying attention?
Excellent post! We definitely need to more aware that God is working in all things including our own lives. Thanks for the reminder.
That’s such a good question there, I wonder how often Jesus has walked past me in a situation and I don’t even see Him? I’ve often wondered if the disciples didn’t scream in terror at Him at not even so much at the storm. I bet it dwindled in size after seeing Him out there. But I’m in the boat with the guys, peering out, my heart half-stopping by what I see, half-hoping it might be Jesus, half-hoping it might actually be a ghost, because maybe that would be less frightening… and less glorious. Great thoughts, Jim.
Thanks for the comment, Brian! We had a great time at dinner last night and we are looking forward to hanging with you all again.