The storm did not disappear before Peter stepped out of the boat. Faith began when he trusted that Jesus was greater than the waves beneath him. Matthew 14:22-33 reminds us that courage is found not in controlling the storm, but in recognizing the One who walks with us through it.
In Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Jesus reveals the surprising nature of God’s kingdom through parables of a mustard seed, yeast, hidden treasure, a pearl of great value, and a net. The kingdom may begin small and unseen, yet it transforms everything.
Psalm 85:10-13…“Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other.” vs. 10 When we look across the political landscape of our country it’s hard to maintain a spirit of optimism. Not only is it difficult to know what is true, it’s virtually impossible to see how anything good can come of the intense polarization that is taking place. There are accusations and countercharges on every hand, and often civil discourse seems like a forgotten dream. Efforts…
Psalm 85:8-9…“Let me hear what God the LORD will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.” vs. 8 The psalmist craved to hear the word of the Lord, and evidently had a pretty good sense of what the Lord would say. Based on what we can assume were years of faithful living he knew that he would hear admonitions to seek peace in every circumstance. The…
1 Kings 19:9-18…“At that place he came to a cave, and spent the night there. Then the word of the LORD came to him, saying, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?’” vs. 9 For a moment Elijah was triumphant in his struggle against the paganism that Israel had embraced under King Ahab and his queen, Jezebel. He had defeated her prophets of Baal in a great contest on Mount Carmel, but when she erupted in rage against him and threatened…
I came for the Healing of Memories workshop for veterans, and I almost didn’t come because of the trauma I wrestle with, but your staff, the workshop leaders and the quiet and safe campus held me there and I’ve found a new sense of peace and healing.