John 6:16-21
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Read John 6:16-21 imagining what the disciples are experiencing.
We have to wonder why the disciples took off in a boat without Jesus regardless of how late he was. But they did, and now they are in the middle of a battle with nature that is taxing them physically and emotionally.
Why do you think the disciples went ahead without Jesus?
Are there any current circumstances in your life in which you are growing tired of waiting? Take a moment to talk about this with Jesus in complete honesty.
Read John 6:16-21 again picturing the scene.
In the midst of the chaos of the storm, Jesus’ closest followers don’t recognize him. It’s understandable, because they most likely can’t see past the fact that whoever this is he’s defying the laws of nature. If they were in calmer circumstances they might have remembered that God’s original intent was for humans to have dominion over nature, and because Jesus never rebelled against God’s good and perfect intent, he still does.
Jesus is gracious even when his own don’t immediately recognize him. He makes his presence known and comes near.
Are there any chaotic circumstances in your life at present? If so, take a moment to think about the circumstance and notice any feelings that arise in you.
Now get quiet and allow Jesus to make his presence known to you.
Picture yourself inviting him into the circumstance.
For the disciples, the destination was reached the moment they recognized Jesus and invited him into the boat. Because the resurrected Jesus is not limited by time and space, he already knows the resolution of your circumstance. What do you think, or how do you feel about that?
As you end this time of meditation, spend a moment thanking Jesus for coming near. Consider asking him to help you trust him to lead you safely to your destination. If you sense there is something you need to do in response, follow through today.
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