When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. John 6:16-18 NIV
As we sail through life, we all encounter times of darkness, times when we struggle to see the light. We learn from other gospel accounts that Jesus had sent the disciples ahead while he spent some time on the mountain praying, but now darkness had set in, and he had not yet joined them. So the fact that they were sailing without Jesus was of no fault of their own, it’s not like they had intended to go it alone. Yet here they were, in the middle of the lake, in the dark, and the journey was getting rough.
So many times in life, we find ourselves in a similar situation. Sometimes as a result of our own poor choices and sometimes to no fault of our own, but either way, the struggle is real. We know where we want to be, but darkness sets in and we just can’t seem to get there. The journey is hard, we’re navigating rough waters and there are some strong forces coming against us. We feel alone. Where is Jesus?
When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” John 6:19-20 NIV
Three miles is a long way to row against the wind, in the dark! But Jesus was well aware of where they were. He saw them struggling. He knew they needed his help. They were shocked when he approached the boat! They thought they were out of his reach. There was no way, in the natural order of things, that he would be able to join them in the storm. Yet our God does not operate in the natural order of things! He is not hindered by darkness, nor the forces that come against us. He is not effected by rough waters. He always has the ability to walk on the water! He always has the power to rescue us out of the storm!
The darkness kept them from recognizing him as he approached the boat, but it couldn’t stop them from hearing his voice! Are you listening for the voice of God? Can you hear Him say, “It is I, don’t be afraid?” He will always find you in your hour of need!