Raging waves and turbulent waters– May 5

Today’s Readings: Psalm 72; PM Psalm 119:73-96; Wisdom 13:1-9; Rom 13:1-14; Luke 8:16-25

As a byproduct of the deluge that descended upon this region of the Southeast yesterday, the tiny Huckleberry Creek that runs through our neighborhood swelled more than I have seen it in our 18 months in Bluff Park. Our kids watched with exhilaration as the whitewater rapids raced through the culvert and under the covered bridge, threatening to whisk away any leaf or other living thing that dared to enter the perilous space that is usually a dry creek bed.

This morning, without power due to a toppled tree and downed power lines, the kids and I passed the time before leaving for school and work by walking down to the covered bridge to see the what the water looked like. Josephine noted how the large rocks in the creek were visible again. Robinson paused to hear the roaring of the waterflow beneath the metal sewer cover in the road. While the waters were still noisily pouring along their well-worn pathway, the turbulence of Tuesday’s eventide had calmed. We marveled how quickly the landscape changed.

Reflecting on today’s scripture and the power of rushing water, I can feel the fear in the disciples’ words from Luke 8, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” as the winds whipped fiercely, and the waves violated the integrity of the boat. The threat was significant and their panic was real. Upon Jesus’ word settling the waters, the disciples were amazed. At once, their safety was restored.

I can also connect with the Wisdom of Solomon exploring the awe and wonder in watching the waters of creation flow – and how that can shape how we see God:

If through delight in the beauty of these things people assumed them to be gods,

let them know how much better than these is their Lord,

for the author of beauty created them.

And if people were amazed at their power and working,

let them perceive from them

how much more powerful is the one who formed them.

For from the greatness and beauty of created things

comes a corresponding perception of their Creator. (13:3-5)

Rather than seeing the acts of nature – stars, fire, or wind – as individual gods that combine to rule aspects of the world, the poet points to the way we can perceive these movements as correlations to or indicators of God the Creator, who is full of more beauty and power than we can imagine.

Each day we are called to open our eyes to see God and our hearts to desire God – not only as a savior in times of peril, but also as a light to illumine our lives. If raging waves and turbulent waters have invaded your basement or your spirit lately, listen to Jesus’ question to the disciples: Where is your faith? Asked differently, maybe Jesus is asking us, “In what or to whom are you tethering yourself to restore a sense of calm? Is it helping?”

I’ve seen on a church marquis the message ‘No Jesus, no peace; Know Jesus, know peace.’ It sounds trite, and it also has a ring of truth about it. Here’s my closing prayer for us all: May the peace of Jesus grow in us today, keeping us anchored in the rushing waters and nourished when the creek bed is dry. Amen.

-- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

 What attributes of God are apparent to you in nature?

 How do acts of nature - especially inclement weather - shine a light on how you answer Jesus' question, "Where is your faith?"

Daily Challenge

 Jesus restored a sense of calm to his disciples after they cried out in fear. He stopped the storm and tossing waters. Spend five minutes centering yourself on Jesus’ power to bring calm, while also bringing companionship and confidence to his friends. Once you have tried to get a bit more grounded, pray for someone who needs to have calm restored in their life, too.