SOAP Devotions

AN INVITATION TO STAND UP
We need Jesus standing up for us in the midst of a storm.

(S) Luke 8:24-25

“The disciples went and woke him up saying, Master, Master, we’re going to drown. He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided and all was calm.  Where is your faith? He asked the disciples.

(O) The disciples were busy trying to control the world around them because this was territory that they knew and understood as fishermen.  The harder they fought, the more exhausted and disillusioned and desperate they became until it seemed death was inevitable. At that time, they woke Jesus, grabbing his attention and at which time He stood up for them and rebuked the wind and waves bringing calm, safety and assurance. This brought a healthy fear and amazement to everyone in that boat.

(A) We all have raging storms in our life that we are desperately trying to control in our own strength and sadly we all wait until it looks like the end is near till we cry out to God, grab Jesus’ attention so He can rebuke the storm and bring calm leaving us amazed at His power with a healthy fear and honour of Him.

Maybe it’s time for our nation’s leaders to show a little humility on behalf of the Australian people and ask us ALL to cry out to God in the midst of this raging storm of Covid.  Maybe they could put aside their own personal beliefs and bias, and out of love for the people God has enabled them to serve, admit that we don’t have all the answers and we really could use some divine help? Maybe if we invite Jesus to step up - rebuke the storm, calm could be restored with a healthy dose of respect and amazement for the creator?

(P) Father, please enable us to have humble hearts, inviting Jesus to stand up for us in every storm.  Amen.