Wind and Waves

Then he got into the boat and his disciples followed him.  Without warning, a furious strom came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat.  But Jesus was sleeping.  The disciples went and woke him, saying, " Lord, save us! We're going to drown!"

He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?"  Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.

The men were amazed and asked, "What kind of man is this?  Even the wind and the waves obey him!"

Matthew 8:23-27

I'm spending part of my spring break this week at the Outer Banks in Nags Head, NC.  When I was invited to join friends at the beach front house, I imagined myself sitting on the beach with my bathing suit on and book in hand, reapplying suncreen every hour or so, and taking a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Much to my dismay, the weather hasn't quite cooperated with my expectant plans.  It has been cool with high winds each day.  A walk on the beach yesterday was almost too difficult.  After reaching the pier, a mile from the house, we turned around to walk against the strong gusts back to our safe haven.
This morning I stood at the sliding glass doors on the top level of the house looking out at the endless ocean.  The wind was whistling and blowing anything that could be carried away.  The waves were crashing onto the shore, one after another without interruption. 
I thought about the disciples who were afraid as they were caught in the storm as Jesus slept.  Fearful, they woke Jesus in a panic.  But there was no reason to be afraid.  Jesus calmed the storm.  He spoke and calmness overcame the waters and the wind stilled. 
I am amazed by his power.  Why do I doubt?  Why do I fear?  What can rock my boat that Jesus can't, if it is his will, still for me? I am thankful for the wind and waves at the beach yesterday and today, and for the reminder of Jesus' presence and power in my life.