Through the Eye of the Storm

 The boat rocks back and forth as the water begins to breach. The waves crash and the storm rages on through the black skies. “Lord!! Lord!” Surely the waves will overtake and all will be lost. But there He is, Jesus, undisturbed and at rest. His disciples continue calling out to him in fear. They see the storm and it’s more than they can handle. And Jesus is just…. Sleeping?  He arises with his hands stretched out and with three simple words the storm is calmed. “Peace be still!” Everything surrenders and grows quiet. “Oh you of little faith!”

 Oh me of little faith…

 All I can see are the waves. Total chaos surrounds me and I cry out in despair. Will I be crushed, broken, and swept away? Will I lose all control as the storm rages on? Fear and uncertainty sweep in with every crash of the waves. I cry out for mercy, but there you are, undisturbed and not a single worry. How foolish I can be! I focus my eyes on the waves and forget who is on the boat with me. You only have to speak and peace returns. The wind and the waves know your name, Jesus.

 All things in my life surrender at the raising of your hands. You are in control and you are at peace through the trials that shake me to my core. You see what I don’t see. Instead of finding rest in your presence, I cry out with panic as I face the raging waters. But I forget. I forget that you are with me. I forget that you are mighty to save. I forget that my hope is found in you.

  And as you remind me, I find joy in the eye of the storm. Though fear and chaos surround me, you are there. I find peace in your presence. My hope is anchored in knowing that through every trial, you are right there with me. Your love is my stronghold and in it, I am steadfast. You are constant and never failing. God, I look to you. My joy is found in simply being in the boat with you. 

Romans 5:2-5"And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

Looking to You,

 Olivia Thabisa Cartwright