(The following is the February 18 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Mark 6 and pay close attention to verses 45-52.)
In 1980 Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band released the song “Against the Wind.” The lyrics near the end say, “I’m older now but still runnin’ against the wind.” * We know what it is like physically to walk or run against the wind. We may squint our eyes, tilt our heads down, and lean forward to keep our balance because of the force pushing against us. Forward progress can be slow.
We also know what it is like to face life’s headwinds when forces keep us from moving in our intended direction. We may face opposition because our path interferes with what others want. Biases and discrimination from others may hinder our progress. Persecution can come from those with opposing worldviews who are intolerant of people with biblical worldviews. People may push back when we advocate change threatening their power and preferred ways of doing things. When facing life’s headwinds, uncertainty and turmoil make it seem like we never get a moment’s rest as we constantly struggle to keep going. As the song says, it is like we are “runnin’ against the wind.”
When Jesus saw the disciples from a distance early one morning straining at their boat oars with the wind against them (v. 48), he came to them walking on water and said, “Have courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid” (v. 50). Then Jesus got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. They were still on the boat at sea. He did not whisk them away to another location. Instead, he joined them where they were, and when he joined them, there was calm.
Jesus may not remove us from the storms we face, but he will join us on the journey. His presence can bring calm, and that is enough.
Next Step:
Can you recall a time when Christ’s presence made all the difference in your ability to face strong forces against you? Share that experience with someone who is facing challenging times.
____________________
*Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band, “Against the Wind,” 1980, on Against the Wind, Capitol Records, 33 1/3 rpm.
Comments