Mark 4:35

New International Version (NIV)

That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.”

For Meditation

His invitation to come with Him into the New Year is authoritative and firm. Nothing can stop it.

“Let us go over to the other side,” He told His disciples (Mk. 4:35). The appointed time to crossover to the other side had come, and nothing was going to stop them. But did they know that?

They left the crowd behind, and “they took him along, just as he was, in the boat” (36). But, who really took whom?

The dark world was angry: “You’re not going to cross over this lake to our territory to set our captive free.”

So, a big squall broke, the waves rose high and pounded the boat. “This lake will be your grave today.”

 In the stern, their Master slept, comfortably on a cushion; or was He? How could the One who watches over His flock be sleeping? How could the Shepherd of Israel slumber? Has He not promised never to let their feet slip (Ps. 121:3-4)?

“Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”

Faithless followers! Who created the sea and the wind? Who engineered their movement to create the waves? What authority does the created have over the Creator? So, how could anyone who knows Him, dare think they will drown in any furious storm when He is with them?

“Peace! Be still!”

Three words! Nothing more, and the wind and the proud waves heard the Master’s voice. Obedience was their only choice. Calm replaced turmoil.

“Who is this? Even the wind and waves obey Him?”

It’s true, they had never seen anyone like Him before, because He is God. Jesus is God!

He is the One you have believed and committed your life to. He is your Creator, Savior, Sustainer, Lord, and King. All power and authority come from Him, and nothing can resist His command.

He is the One who says to you today, “Let us crossover to the next year of your life on earth – 2018.” There is fierce opposition in the realm of darkness to resist your move into the blessings of 2018. But, hear the Master’s voice that commands every furious squall in your way, “Peace! Be still!” And everything is quiet and peaceful around you now.

1. So where is your faith?
2. Where did you leave it?
3. Can you hold it up in Jesus now, as you prepare to crossover with Him into the coming year?
4. Can you hear Him saying, “Do not be afraid, for I am with you” (Is. 43:5).
5. Is that not comforting enough? Is it not assuring for you?

May you have faith to believe; for it’s Jesus who goes with you into your inheritance in 2018, and nothing can stop that.

Happy New Year already!

Shalom