Strong spirits: what really scares you?

Have you ever been terrified? I mean really really overwhelmed with fear? I have been, and it is no fun. But I think it is bound to happen occasionally, just living the adventure of faith day to day.

Jesus' disciples were terrified more than once. One time it was because they were in the middle of a storm, in a boat, exhausted from rowing hard, and saw someone or something walking on the water. (John 6:19) Turns out it was Jesus, who told them over the roar of the storm, "Don't be afraid- it is I" (v 20). They believed him, took him into their boat, and immediately all was well. At least at that moment...

What terrifies me is the thought that in the storms of my life, in all the day-to-day struggles and moments of fear, I will forget to invite Jesus into my boat. I will forget that Jesus has promised never to leave or forsake me. I will foolishly think that I can take care of things in my own strength and don't really need his help. That is a very scary thought.

How about you? Have you invited Jesus into your boat? Can you hear him say, "Don't be afraid- it is I"?  If you haven't, or haven't for a while, I encourage you to invite him in.

Besides serving as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church, Gary Schwerin is the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life. His columns appear here every Sunday - to see them all, subscribe to our daily email.

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