Calming Our Storms

22 One day [Jesus] got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side of the lake.” So they set out, 23 and as they sailed he fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water and were in danger. 24 And they went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm. 25 He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and they marveled, saying to one another, “Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?” Luke 8:22-25 

This is a stormy time in America. Aspects of our government and our culture are changing at breakneck speed. If the changes are hard for us to keep up with, imagine what they are like for people who are new to this country—people whose lives up till now have been full of change and instability. Is it any wonder that, just like us, they are looking for something strong and safe to cling to?

We cling to Jesus, the one who can calm any of our storms, including the ones that are raging right now. When we are afraid, we run to him and cry out, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And every time, Jesus comes through for us. We have seen it before, and we will see it again. He is our comfort and safety, this God who is also human—and who understands our fears. He has rescued us from the power of evil through his own suffering, death, and resurrection.

But not all of our new American friends know this. How can you tell them? How can you help them find hope in the God who can calm their storms, too?

Dear Lord Jesus, watch over those who are new to this country, and bring them to know you and the peace you give us, no matter what our circumstances are. Amen.

By Dr. Kari Vo