Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!

Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid! 

Jesus’ words are perplexing at best.   Why wouldn’t the disciples be terrified, given the situation?   Not only are they far out to sea, but it’s dark, a storm is raging, and what appears to be a ghost is walking toward them.   Who wouldn’t be afraid?

So how should we understand Jesus’ words to the disciples?   And more to the point, how can we deal with our fears when we face terrifying circumstances?   We all know the kinds of things that could make us afraid: a cancer diagnosis, job loss, financial upheaval, a child in a car accident, and many others.   These are the situations where fear can overwhelm and paralyze us.   They’re the situations in which it feels as if we are in the boat with the disciples—and just moments away from capsizing.

But look what happens right after Jesus tells the disciples to do something that seemed impossible:  “He got into the boat with them” (Mark 6:51).   Which is exactly what Jesus does for us.   He joins us in our “boat.”   He doesn’t just tell us not to be afraid;  he enters into our situation and promises to remain with us every step of the way.

This might not mean an instantaneous healing of cancer or a surprise check appearing in our mailbox.   But it may well entail the Lord offering you his help just when you most need it.   Maybe he leads you to an excellent doctor.   Maybe you learn about a promising new job opportunity.   Or maybe nothing appears to happen at all, but you experience a sense of peace in the midst of turmoil.   Whatever happens, Jesus wants to show you that he is with you for the long haul.   He has no intention of abandoning you.   This means you can trust in him, even in the most terrifying of storms.

So whenever you feel like your boat is sinking, remember Jesus’ words:  “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid” (Mark 6:50).   Jesus is with you, and he will remain with you through every frightening moment.   Then keep your eyes open so that you don’t miss all the ways he is caring for you.

Word Among Us