In the Chaos

In the ancient middle-eastern world, the sea was seen as the place of chaos. It was a place to be feared for its power, and size, and unpredictable nature. Time and time again in the Bible, the sea is used as an image of unrestrained chaos. Sailors and fishermen were those who braved this chaotic world to make a living.


Growing up, I always understood the fact that Jesus called fishermen to be his disciples to mean that Jesus calls the everyday folks to follow him, not just the learned scholars...and while I still believe that is true, this morning I find myself wondering if Jesus called fishermen to be his disciples because these folks were already used to bravely stepping into chaos.




When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Isaiah 43:2


Jesus woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, “Why are you afraid?” Mark 4:39–40


These scriptures remind me today that whatever chaos swirls around us, we are never alone. In the darkness, there is light. In the hopelessness, there is hope. In the struggle, there is strength. In the fear, there is courage to take another step.


Pause a moment as you read this and simply contemplate; what is happening in my life that is beyond my control? Is there something that feels chaotic, unpredictable, or untamed?


Peace. Be still. Christ is with you in the chaos.


PRAYER:
Ever-present God, there is great comfort in knowing that when life is darkest, you are a light in the darkness with us. We forget that there is no detail of our lives that is too insignificant for you. May we be reminded that you care about all of our struggles; that what matters to us, matters to you. Amen.