Where's God in the Storm

"Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” -Mark 4:38

"Don't you care...?" It's a heck of a question to ask anyone, especially God. If we're all honest, we have all asked God that very question, especially when the hits just keep coming. I asked God the same question after several hours of the pounding pouring rain during the rescues of Harvey. Right now as firefighters are facing layoffs and demotions, we are in one of the toughest storms and fights of our lives.

Jesus wasn't the least bit surprised, scared, or concerned that a storm was tossing around their small fishing boat. He was able to sleep during the whole ordeal, until the worriers woke him up. When they questioned His love and care for them, He stopped the storm and calmed the sea to show that He is God and is in control. He slept because He knew they would be okay and the storm would pass. There are some important eternal truths to be learned:
     1. Storms will come. Even with Jesus on your side and in your boat, they will come.
     2. You do not have to go through the storm alone. He is always with us.
     3. The storm will end. They always do.
     4. Jesus can give us his peace and strength to endure the storm. 

     5. Jesus doesn't say merely say He cares, He shows it. 

Storms are part of life. Embrace the struggle. Strength comes from enduring and persevering the trials of life. Pressure creates diamonds, and irritation creates pearls. Joy is fully experienced only after knowing pain. As we walk through the storms of uncertainty, let us walk together. Hold onto your Faith in Christ who is always with us, and look for all the ways He is demonstrating His love and care for us.

-Captain Bobby Delgado

HFD Chaplain