Matthew 14 has that fascinating story of the twelve disciples caught in a storm in a boat on Galilee. Jesus had sent them off alone, after the dramatic feeding of more than five thousand people “in a desolate place” (verse 13). This event must have astonished them.

Jesus had heard of the killing of John the Baptist – a heart searching omen for him – and finally he had the chance to be alone “up on the mountain by himself to pray” (verse 23). The disciples were in the boat, “but the boat by this time was a long way from land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them” (verse 24). We can see a kind of parallel here – with ourselves alone in the world – and everything is buffeting us and our faith is struggling. Suddenly they see Jesus but “they were terrified” (verse 26).

What are we expecting to see as we live in these last days when the world is in increasing turmoil? Different things are buffeting us – maybe climate change or a world-wide virus, or maybe a financial crisis; things we had relied upon are suddenly changed and uncertain. We have no clear picture of the final climax, the many passages of scripture that describe the end of the kingdoms of men do not easily fit together.

Those alive at that time – and that could be the majority of those who are reading this, must look and listen for his voice. “Take heart, It is I. Do not be afraid” (verse 27). When Jesus is in the boat all will become calm and what wonder then will follow. Make sure you are in the boat now.