2/24/11 John 6:16-21 Getting Us to Our Destination

¹⁶ When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, ¹⁷ 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. ¹⁸ A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. ¹⁹ When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. ²⁰ But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” ²¹ Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.

(Walking on the Water; Ivan Aivozovsky 1888)

Thoughts: The unusual and the spiritual may frighten us.  Jesus calls to those who were frightened at seeing him walk on water by saying, "It is I don't be afraid." When they welcomed Jesus into the boat they reached their destination.   Today we face many storms, and difficult seas.  Economic turmoil, unrest among the nations, unbelief even among God's people.  But if we welcome Jesus into our situation- into our life- our purpose and destination will be achieved. 

Prayer: Come into my heart anew this day.  Calm the storms of my life and in my heart.  Help me to fulfill your purpose and destination for me.

John Calvin Abridged: Christ undoubtedly concealed himself until the crowd had dispersed. The other Evangelists relate that he spent the time away from the disciples in prayer (Mt. 14:23; Mk. 6:46).  Christ's miraculous crossing of the lake is intended to confirm their faith.  Pliny says the sea is six miles wide and sixteen miles long.  When Christ came to them they were in utmost danger.  The Lord allows his people to sometimes face danger in order that they may more plainly recognize him in their deliverance.  The other Evangelists tell us they were seized with fear because they thought he was an apparition.  An apparition may be an imposture from Satan or a bad sign from God.  But when they hear his voice, they obtain peace.  We learn from them that it is in Christ's presence alone that we have abundant cause for confidence.  He not only comforts Him with His Word, but calms the storm as well.