THE HEADWIND

Mark 6:47-48 (NIV) When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. [48] He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them.

I was reading this familiar story this morning and could relate a little to the disciples, maybe you can to? The boat is in the middle of the lake, not at the shore but in the middle, not at the destination but in the middle and they are straining as they row into a head wind.

If ever you have done any kind of exercise like running or cycling you know the feeling of momentum that you have while riding with a tail wind. You are breaking records, you are surpassing expectations but don't forget to leave enough energy to come home. Because sooner or later you will probably turn a corner to head back and then you are confronted with a head wind. Maybe you have had a bumper year business wise but all of a sudden there is a strong head wind, maybe with your family there has been healthy relationships but suddenly you have turned into a head wind and you are straining to even find harmony. It could be your health all of a sudden the wind has changed or maybe your marriage has disintegrated and now you are alone facing a head wind.

In all of the disciples straining, reaching, pushing there comes a comforting, calming voice, sometimes its only a whisper, but if you quiet the headwind in your soul long enough you will hear it, "It's all right," he said. "I am here! Don't be afraid." (Mark 6:50).

Why don't you stop, take a deep breath, put down the oars and listen.