Overwhelming Waves

As we’ve watched the news this past week, we have all been saddened and amazed at the destruction that has taken place in Japan. It was bad enough that an earthquake hit the nation, especially one as strong as that which took place. But even worse, so it seems, was the tsunami that followed. (Not to mention the problems with the nuclear power plants.) It was unbelievable to see the ocean move across the land with the force and speed that it did. The waves of the tsunami overwhelmed everything that stood in their way, destroying everything in their path.

One news report noted, however, the way in which the waves of the tsunami came far onto the land, but only so far. The report showed how almost a whole neighborhood was destroyed, but beyond a particular point everything else remained standing. It was as if a line had been drawn and the water was told it could go so far and no further. Of course, it most likely had to do with the speed and force of the water combined with the altitude and slope of the land. Nonetheless, it was an amazing phenomena.

So often it can feel as if we are being overwhelmed by great waves of distress and difficulty. Circumstances come into our lives that threaten to discourage us and destroy our lives, coming into our lives with great force and speed. Sometimes it can feel as if those waves are about to sweep away everything in their path. At those times we need to be reminded that we serve a God who is able to stop and calm every wave. He may allow them to come into our lives, but they can come only so far.

One night Jesus’ disciples found themselves out in the sea, in the midst of a storm, about to swallowed up by the waves. As they cried out to Jesus, the Bible says, “He (Jesus) got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.” (Mark 4:39 – NIV)

The Psalmist wrote, “Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven.” (Psalm 107:28-30 – NIV)

You may have waves threatening to overwhelm your life today. If so, put your faith in God; call out to him in prayer. He is able to calm every storm. He is yet able to stop every wave in its path. And he will lead you to a safe haven.

And, let’s keep the people of Japan in our prayers. May God’s love be revealed to them in the in the midst of their suffering.

Have a great day!

-Pastor Tim Harris

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