Do You Hear The Whisper? #302

John 6:16 Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea, 17 and after getting into a boat, they started to cross the sea to Capernaum. It had already become dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. 18 The sea began to be stirred up because a strong wind was blowing. 19 Then, when they had rowed about three or four miles, they *saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat; and they were frightened. 20 But He *said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” 21 So they were willing to receive Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going.

Jesus and His disciples had just observed one of the most remarkable miracles recorded in the Bible; the feeding of the five thousand with five loaves of barley and two small fish. Jesus in a somewhat normal pattern went into the wilderness to be alone. Likely exhausted from ministry during the day He retreated for some time to be alone.

The disciples moved toward the sea, their place of re

treat. Jesus was not with them as they climbed into their boats to travel to Capernaum. It was already dark. The sea became restless as the strong winds began to blow. Three or four miles out into the sea they saw Jesus. He was not in another boat, but was walking on the water; another incredible miracle.

Seeing Jesus walking on the water and coming near the boat caused them to respond with fear. Jesus in His concerned way simply told them, “I am here, don’t be afraid.” He climbed into the boat with them and soon they were in Capernaum.

How often are you afraid? Fear is a driving factor in most people’s lives. The fear includes family, jobs, health, spiritual needs and a plethora of life’s dilemmas. What do your hear when you are afraid? You more than likely have thoughts in your mind that even make it worse. The need is to listen to the voice of Jesus. He is whispering in your ear, “I am here. Do not be afraid.” Jesus has promised to never leave you or forsake you. He is here with you right now.

_________________________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from McDonalds in Eldon, MO

My Dad went on to be with Jesus on Friday. His funeral is today, June 4th. 

He would have celebrated his 89th birthday on June 3rd. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. His life was an example of his faith. He was a man of impeccable  character. He loved his family and his Savior. His activities in life included his work as a TV repairman, a deacon and Sunday school teacher in his church. No doubt his greatest love of life was his wife who preceded him in death seven years ago. He kept saying all along that he just wanted to go on the heaven to be with her. His wish has been fulfilled. 

He was a great influence in my life. I will miss him and look forward to seeing him again. 

This past week Sandy and I took some of our grandchildren camping. 

We had a great time. Mandy and John brought their two little ones; Justin and Johnny. Collin came along with one of his friends from school. We tried a little fishing, ate a lot of food, and just enjoyed one another. The other two grandsons; Burke and Bennett, are still in school and didn't get to come along. 

Thanks so much for your prayers during the past few days. "God is good" and I am aware of that truth now more than ever. 

Heaven is a little sweeter place because Dad is there. 

May God bless you today.  

                                  ~ DGW