Calm Seas 

   “He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Quiet!  Be still!’  The wind ceased and there was great calm.”  (Mark 4: 39) 

   Our life can be compared to a sea voyage beginning at our birth and ended with our death.  Throughout the trip we will face both stormy and calm seas.  There will be times when we fear our ship is to be swamped and times when the sailing will be peaceful and easy.

   In times of calm seas we far too often tend to forget that the quietness of the waters is a gift from God.  But as soon as the waters turn violent and threatening we, like the apostles, want to wake the Lord and beg His assistance.  People are fickle like that.

   There will always be difficulties in life.  Jesus told us “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23).  But we are also told that He will never test us beyond our strength but will provide a way out (see 1 Cor: 10: 13).  The tests are an important part of our spiritual growth.  Through them we learn to trust in God’s love and mercy toward us, to turn to Him in all things.

   Whether the seas are calm and pleasant or raging with anger we have a Father who loves us and will always see us through.  When things seem their darkest, He is there to light a candle within us, bringing peace and comfort to our life. 

In good times and bad You are with us.

You test us but will never abandon us.

Increase my trust in You.

Fill my heart with Your calm and peace. 

Amen