Friday, January 19, 2007
John 6:19-20 So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. But He said to them, "It is I; do not be afraid."
I'M HERE, DON'T BE AFRAID!
Matthew, who was also in the boat, reveals that it was during the fourth watch of the night that Jesus came to them. This would make Jesus' appearance perhaps between 3 and 6 am. They had fought wind and wave all night, rowing 3-4 miles.
If the fear of death wasn't enough, they began to see a figure walking around on the lake. How did they see Him? Perhaps it was the flashing of lightning that revealed the figure as he drew near the boat.
Whatever the case, they were terrified and their crisis seemed to grow worse. This happened because they sought to obey Jesus' Word. He was the one that told them to get in the boat and go to the other side (Matthew 14:22). When He came to them He didn't remain silent, He spoke to comfort.
When a child wakes from a nightmare it is often necessary to tell the child that all is well. Many a parent has spoke similar soothing words: "It's OK, I'm here now. Don't be afraid. I won't let anyone hurt you."
All it took to comfort the terrified hearts of the disciples was the word of Jesus: "It is I, stop being afraid." There is nothing to fear, not anymore, for I am with you. Nothing has changed. All it takes to calm our frightened hearts and wildly palpitating hearts is the word of our Lord Jesus:
When weak and alone He says:
"I am with you always, even to the end of the world."
When doubts and questions arise in our hearts and disturb our rest, He says:
"Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, I will give you rest."
When death comes knocking, He says:
"I am the Resurrection and the Life, he who believes in me though he may die, he shall live."
The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, and nothing can stop Him from coming to our aid. This we understand by faith, and say with the hymn writer Charlotte Elliot (TLH 388:3):
Just as I am, though tossed about with many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without -- O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
