³⁸But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” Mark 4:38

There have been times in my life when I thought my boat was truly sinking. Dark clouds engulfed me, lightning blinded me, and pounding thunder beat me down farther and farther into a very dark place. I was so afraid that the enormous waves of hopelessness would soon push me under and I wouldn’t even know which way was up.

One such storm overtook me a few years ago when my beautiful 23-year-old daughter was taken from this world through an act of violence. I felt like I was all alone during the most terrifying storm imaginable. I was certain there was no one there to throw me a lifeline. I’m ashamed to admit that, just like the disciples in Mark 4:38, my faith had washed away.

For a while I wasn’t even able to pray. I didn’t know what to pray, and I doubted anyone was there to listen. Despite my lack of faith, Jesus heard my silent cry for help. He took command of my sinking boat and healed my troubled heart. He even forgave me for doubting that He would always be my personal lifeguard.

I know that because Jesus heard my Mayday call, I survived the worst storm of my life. In His mercy , He steered my life in a new direction. I didn’t deserve it, and I want to tell everyone how wonderful His love is.

This world is a pretty stormy place! Covid-19, homelessness, unemployment, loneliness, and violence are all rocking our boat. But they are no match for our Savior who is always in that boat with us, guiding us, healing us, loving us, and forgiving us.

PRAYER: Jesus, thank you for always being at the helm, watching over me, ready to calm any storm that comes my way. Thank you for loving me enough to forgive me even when I doubt that you are there.

Contributed by Susan Walker