I AM - Do Not Fear

John 6:16-21
16When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, 17got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. 18The sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing. 19When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they were frightened. 20But he said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” 21Then they were glad to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going.

What a day the Disciples are having! First they have a front row seat to witness the feeding of a huge crowd of people where no resources exist to feed them. Now they are trying to get across the Sea of Galilee and they are caught in a storm in the middle of the night. Jesus isn't with them - yet.

This story has some pretty cool elements; not the least of which is seeing Jesus walk across the roiling waves. And then there would be that miraculous transport from the middle of the raging sea to the shore, Jesus, disciples, and boat. That's a ride I would have loved to be on!

In the midst of the story, we find Jesus identifying Himself for the disciples with these words. "It is I, do not be afraid." The translation here is unfortunate. What He actually says is "I AM". Once again He invokes words that reveal His position as almighty God. He is the God who created these waves. His ability to control them is without question. I don't know if the disciples catch that reference in the midst of the storm, but they are assured that it is Jesus and pull Him into the boat.

The application here is pretty simple to acquire. That's why we love to teach this story to children. God is there for us in the storms of life. He comes with His great I AM and we are safe. That doesn't mean we won't suffer the storm. And Jesus may not transport your boat to the shore. There may be more storm for you to suffer. But with the great I AM at your side, you can also heed His words, "Do not be afraid."

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