Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Resurrected lord-the co-traveler.
Scripture focus: Acts 27: 27 - 37
Would we hear, listen, and believe if the Lord spoke to us today? Do we fully trust that He is present even in the silent moments of life?
Today's portion reminds us that God's guidance can come in quiet ways amid chaotic circumstances. That God is present in all situations, even when everything seems lost. That if we remain connected to Him, through the Holy Spirit, we will be given wisdom for every situation.
On this journey through life, we are not solo travelers. Instead, we are accompanied by our Resurrected Lord on every path. The power of God can lead us toward safety and peace in all situations, no matter how strong the storm may appear.
In our Scripture of focus, we see capable but anxious sailors wading through tumultuous waters on their way to Italy. Here, Paul, a prisoner being transported, continues to use his intimate connection to God to bring peace and clarity in an extremely confusing situation. Paul speaks up when he sees injustice, remains at peace even in chains, and provides encouragement to unbelievers who are filled with fear.
There were many reasons to be afraid on this journey. The tumultuous waters, low visibility, and the unknown arriving ahead were all valid grounds for wanting to run away. In fact, many of us might have chosen to save ourselves and jump ship, just like the sailors wanted to. Paul could have even created an alliance with those sailors and escaped with them, avoiding further imprisonment. There were lots of options, but not all options were the right ones.
What option are we seeking when we are in fearful or uncertain situations? Are we running or are we staying anchored in our God?
As the hurricane battered the ship and all their efforts resulted in fruitless attempts, many lost hope. Those in authority seemed to have done everything possible, but it all seemed useless. However, it is in the most impossible situations that God's power is made known the best.
God has reminded me through many stages of my life that prayer is the most powerful weapon. Through continuous and fervent prayer, we can see God's hand moving in every area of our lives. Paul shows us a great example of how modeling quiet faith is just as important as praying loudly or forcefully preaching salvation.
Man's calculations and plans are meaningless when faced with the chaos of life's unpredictable storms. Yet, when all hope seems lost, and no possible solution known to man remains, our Resurrected Lord was with them. The same Lord is with us, guiding us to safety every time.
Prayer
"The Lord is my pilot; I shall not go adrift; He lighteth my passage across dark channels; He steereth me through the deep waters; he keepeth my log. He guideth me by the evening star for my safety's sake. Yea, though I sail mid the thunders and tempests of life, I shall fear no peril, for Thou art with me, The vastness of thy sea upholds me. Surely fair winds and safe harbors shall be found – All the days of my life; And I shall moor, fast, and secure, forever. Amen." - The Sailor's Prayer
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding” – Proverbs 3:5
Anish Chacko
The Mar Thoma Church, Staten Island
Today's portion reminds us that God's guidance can come in quiet ways amid chaotic circumstances. That God is present in all situations, even when everything seems lost. That if we remain connected to Him, through the Holy Spirit, we will be given wisdom for every situation.
On this journey through life, we are not solo travelers. Instead, we are accompanied by our Resurrected Lord on every path. The power of God can lead us toward safety and peace in all situations, no matter how strong the storm may appear.
In our Scripture of focus, we see capable but anxious sailors wading through tumultuous waters on their way to Italy. Here, Paul, a prisoner being transported, continues to use his intimate connection to God to bring peace and clarity in an extremely confusing situation. Paul speaks up when he sees injustice, remains at peace even in chains, and provides encouragement to unbelievers who are filled with fear.
There were many reasons to be afraid on this journey. The tumultuous waters, low visibility, and the unknown arriving ahead were all valid grounds for wanting to run away. In fact, many of us might have chosen to save ourselves and jump ship, just like the sailors wanted to. Paul could have even created an alliance with those sailors and escaped with them, avoiding further imprisonment. There were lots of options, but not all options were the right ones.
What option are we seeking when we are in fearful or uncertain situations? Are we running or are we staying anchored in our God?
As the hurricane battered the ship and all their efforts resulted in fruitless attempts, many lost hope. Those in authority seemed to have done everything possible, but it all seemed useless. However, it is in the most impossible situations that God's power is made known the best.
God has reminded me through many stages of my life that prayer is the most powerful weapon. Through continuous and fervent prayer, we can see God's hand moving in every area of our lives. Paul shows us a great example of how modeling quiet faith is just as important as praying loudly or forcefully preaching salvation.
Man's calculations and plans are meaningless when faced with the chaos of life's unpredictable storms. Yet, when all hope seems lost, and no possible solution known to man remains, our Resurrected Lord was with them. The same Lord is with us, guiding us to safety every time.
Prayer
"The Lord is my pilot; I shall not go adrift; He lighteth my passage across dark channels; He steereth me through the deep waters; he keepeth my log. He guideth me by the evening star for my safety's sake. Yea, though I sail mid the thunders and tempests of life, I shall fear no peril, for Thou art with me, The vastness of thy sea upholds me. Surely fair winds and safe harbors shall be found – All the days of my life; And I shall moor, fast, and secure, forever. Amen." - The Sailor's Prayer
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding” – Proverbs 3:5
Anish Chacko
The Mar Thoma Church, Staten Island