And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret.
In the midst of the most difficult seasons of life, it’s natural to wonder what life would be like without the storm. It’s normal to look back at a time before the tempest and wish to go backward. It’s not unheard of to be so overcome by the mist of the sea, the lightning and thunder in the sky, and the uncertainty of the waves to lose sight of the shore and forget that the storm will end.
For the disciples, their long-awaited rescue came. Jesus calmed the storm, boarded their boat, and brought them to the shore. Landing in Gennesaret, two things greeted them:
Number one, safety and beauty greeted them. Known as a fertile and beautiful stretch of coastline, some scholars refer to this area as “The Paradise of Galilee.” Other scholars translate its meaning as “garden of the prince.” A place of rest and refreshment awaited the disciples on the other side of the storm. What does this mean for you and me? No matter how permanent our storm feels, there is rest on the other side. Take a deep breath. The garden season is coming.
Number two, people in need met them. Word spread quickly that Jesus had arrived on the shore, so those who were sick flocked like hungry birds to the source of their healing: Jesus. The faith in this region reflected that of the woman with the issue of blood as they sought only to touch the hem of His garment for healing.* Jesus, moved with His usual compassion, healed all who touched His hem.
Imagine if the disciples had given up? Imagine if in the middle of the storm they surrendered to the waves? Imagine if after Jesus calmed the storm, they returned to where they came from? They would have missed out on a season of paradise, and a region would have missed out on the miracle-working compassion of Jesus.
Today you may be in a storm. Don’t give up. Don’t turn back. Jesus is with you, and He has a purpose in the storm and a plan for after the storm. This plan looks like rest and refreshment for you. This plan looks like healing and salvation for many.
They journey of the disciples was not just about them; it was about an entire region and their need for Jesus.
Today, take a step.
Maybe today the one step God wants you to take is to press through to the other side. Perhaps God wants you to be one who touches the garment of Jesus in faith. Maybe He wants you to be one who spreads the word that Jesus is here. Perhaps God just wants you to remember that your hope is in Him.
Whatever the step, ask God to direct it. Take a moment to take that step. Invite Him to speak. He will.
Life is a long road. Walk it with Jesus. Take a step today… just one is fine.
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*Leon, Morris, The Gospel According to Matthew. Pillar New Testament Commentary (Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1992), 385–386, and Keener, C. S., Matthew (Vol. 1, Mt 14:34–36) (InterVarsity Press, 1997).