Excerpt from Acts 27:13-38

"When a moderate south wind began to blow, they thought they could achieve their purpose; so they weighed anchor and began to sail past Crete, close to the shore. But soon a violent wind, called the northeaster, rushed down from Crete. Since the ship was caught and could not be turned head-on into the wind, we gave way to it and were driven. By running under the lee of a small island called Cauda we were scarcely able to get the ship’s boat under control."

Reflection by Felix Carrion

After accessing favorable conditions, you set out to accomplish your purpose. Then without notice or expectation, these conditions flip on you, and a violent force blows against you and your best-laid plans. You feel caught, you can’t seem to turn, you are driven by outside forces, and you are scarcely able to get control of your life.

The apostle Paul was being transferred to Rome on this ship as a prisoner. In the turbulence of the storm at sea, Paul urges all to have courage, for he was visited by an angel who had assured him that there would be no loss of life. Paul goes on to provide direction to the crew and all 276 passengers make it to safety.

Forget about trying to forecast your way toward smooth sailing. This won’t work. Instead, consult God in the midst of the adverse conditions that assail you. Learn to perceive God’s vision for your life. When you do this, you learn to find something that is more central to your life and purpose than any and all conditions you may face: courage

We are all familiar with the words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he proclaimed, "I have a dream." What few know is that in one of his writings he also declared, "I have a determination." The force of his dream (vision) summoned up his determination (courage).

So, today, open up to the visitation of God in your life, and your courage will follow.

Prayer

O God, I know you are there. I know you are greater than any storm assailing me. I know that in and with you I find my heart, my courage, my determination, to sail on. O God, I praise you from within the storm. Amen.

About the Author Felix Carrion is Coordinator of The Stillspeaking Ministry, United Church of Christ.

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