January 13 Faithful Reception

John 6:18-21 A strong wind was blowing, and the waters grew rough. 19 When they had rowed three or three and a half miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were terrified. 20 But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” 21 Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.
 
JOHN has some very understated faith statements. A few lessons back as Jesus fed the 5,000, we paused to see how Jesus “distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted”. Were there some unwilling to sit with Jesus? When the Lord invites us to the feast, we must faithfully respond to sit and receive his nourishing Word.
   Let’s now consider “Then they were willing to take him into the boat.” Why would the apostle John, one of the men on the boat, write this? Notice he didn’t say, “They eagerly welcomed Jesus.” Can we not assume Jesus’ disciples would immediately, joyfully take him into the tossing boat? Surely, they would expect to be safe with their miracle-working Master. Why would they have hesitated?
   Let’s understand their state of mind. “They saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were terrified.” Yes, the storm disturbed them, but some are experienced boatmen. Rough waves were challenging but not terrifying. What terrified them was something beyond their experience. Imagine! What would you think if you saw someone walking on turbulent water? The storm you can handle. But the supernatural image would terrify you.
   Perhaps they thought the man on the waves was some demonic force coming to destroy them. They certainly would not have expected Jesus to walk on water! The disciples’ terror came from false assumptions. They would know peace only when Jesus spoke his truth, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” The hope of heaven had come to care for his own.   
   But still, three things needed to happen, so the disciples could experience Jesus’ peace. First, they had to believe their Lord, didn’t they? To Jesus, “It is I.” their faith would say, “It’s Jesus!”. Second, the disciples had to act into their belief. “Come in, Jesus!” It is useless to believe, “It is Jesus.” if we neglect to invite him into our presence. Third, they needed to give their terrified minds to receive the Lord’s faithful promise, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalms 46:10a). How often do we invite Jesus to, “Come in.” then ignore his blessed assurance?
   As you encounter life’s turbulent and even terrifying moments, welcome the Lord God Almighty into our life. Be faithful to say to Jesus: 1) “It is you, Lord!” 2) “Come in, Jesus.” 3) “I will be still in you, Jesus.”  
  
Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for your calm, still voice, assuring my heart, “It is I.” Amen.