Peace In The Midst Of The Storm

There  was a competition by a wealthy man to paint the subject of Peace. Many people entered the contest as the winner would receive a Million dollar prize. There were entries showing quiet meadows with flowering fields, sheep grazing and lying beside quiet waters. Others depicted scenes with doves, and others that represented what one might think of when thinking about peace. But  the painting that captured the eye of the creator of the competition, showed a much different scene:

The painting in grayish, blue hues amidst the backdrop of a mountainous terrain, portrayed a scene of  inclemency where torrential rain made waves so strong that they crashed against the jagged rocks of a cliff. The banks of the river overflowed, unable to contain the downpour, and trees were blown by an invisible wind that could almost be heard.  The lightning strikes in the distance lit the ominous sky, and the mist rising from the ground gave a sultriness that could almost be felt.  The painting was so depictable of a violent storm that you almost had to remind yourself, “It’s only a painting.” So where was the peace?

Looking about half way down the middle of the painting, was a nest.  The nest was tucked into the cleft of the rock.  A rock that sheltered the nest from the profusely, pouring rain. Looking even closer, within that nest, were baby birds, safely nestled behind their mother, as she slept.  

The Painting won the competition, as no other painting quite captured the very essence of Peace like this one had.

There are many variations of this story, this just happens to be mine.  And I’m not sure who told it originally, or if it really happened at all, but it is the epitome of Philippians 4:4-7;

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

In the times we are living in, Life, like this painting, can be full of tumult, uncertainty, and imminent danger. But I’m reminded of Jesus on the boat during the storm with His disciples in Mark 4.  Although the storm was fierce and terrifying, Jesus (The Prince of Peace) was right there, asleep on the boat with them.  His presence was all the assurance they needed against the raging sea and the severity of the storm.  Jesus was on the boat with them.

So, remember;  No matter what it may look like or how things may seem in your life, Jesus is also on your boat, so that you too, can have Peace In The Midst Of The Storm.

Today's Prayer:

“Father, In Jesus’ Name,  remind me that there is never a pit so deep that You cannot save. Nor is there anywhere I could ever be that Your eyes would not find me.  I am always safe with You and when there is chaos all around me, It is under the shelter of Your wings that I find refuge.  In Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen!”