Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat.
Matthew 8:24a
This story begins at the end of a long day. The disciples are tired after a hard day’s work and are looking forward to much needed rest on the other side of the lake. They think they know how their night will unfold. They have no clue that a sudden storm is right around the corner. They have no idea that their night is about to become unforgettable!
Have you ever been in a similar position where you think you know what will happen next but suddenly you are hit with an unexpected 2 by 4? For many believers, this is how life unfolds; it is a series of sudden ‘storms,’ unexpected situations which threaten to overwhelm our lives. Sudden storms are exactly that, sudden and because they are inevitable, we must expect them and prepare for them, much as anyone living in a storm prone region would prepare a storm shelter in advance. When a storm hits, there are only two outcomes: either we defeat the storm, or it defeats us. Preparation is the step that assures a victory.
Throughout the New Testament Jesus prepares his disciples for such sudden storms. In one instance he says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace (not apart from him, but in him). In this world you will have trouble (translation: storms). But take heart! I have overcome the world (John 16:33).” Jesus gives them the assurance that he has already gone ahead of them and defeated every storm that threatens his people. All that is left is for them to accept the gift of peace that can only be found in him. If Jesus prepared the disciples for future storms, should we not do the same?
Are you prepared for a sudden future storm? Have you determined what cause of action you will take? It is difficult to know what to do when a storm is already in progress, so now is the right time to prepare. Is your boat secure? Do you have the right anchor? Are you standing on solid ground? May the Holy Spirit give us the strength and will to get ready, for a storm is coming. It will be sudden and it will be furious. Amen!