‘It is I, do not be afraid’
Sunday 2nd July 2023
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I’ve been enjoying reading a devotional book in John’s gospel called ‘Truly, Truly’ by Adam Ramsey recently. There are lots of brilliant lines and helpful ways it points to Jesus. One recent passage was John 6:16-21 (NIV) when Jesus walks to the disciples on water:
When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened. But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.
Jesus has just fed 5,000 people. He’s withdrawn alone and left his disciples to cross the sea ahead of him. The disciples have just been rowing 3-4 miles in a strong headwind (vs.18-19). This has likely been a traumatic night on the lake for the disciples without any end in sight.
And then in his own time Jesus appears. Jesus announces himself with three simple words, “It is I.”
Adam Ramsey comments on this bit:
“He commands your fearlessness by announcing his presence: “it is I; do not be afraid.” There is no storm in your future that he will abandon you to face alone. There is no night so dark or wind so strong or wave so high that will separate you from the ever-present and invincible nearness of Jesus. How could it be otherwise? The one who called the elements of the physical universe into being rules them still. Jesus walked on top of the waves because even the waters recognised their rightful place under the feet of their Maker.”
So as you think about your life at the moment. Where do you need to hear Jesus say to you “it is I; do not be afraid?”
Why not pray to your Heavenly Father now, asking him to help you where you feel afraid.
With love in Christ,
Ben Wells (Associate Minister)