Shipwreck

After cutting loose the anchors, they left them in the sea, at the same time loosening the ropes that held the rudders. Then they hoisted the foresail to the wind and headed for the beach. But they struck a sandbar…The centurion ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and get to land. The rest were to follow some on planks and some on debris from the ship. In this way, everyone safely reached the shore.

Acts 27:40-44 CSB

Have you ever felt an impending “shipwreck” looming on the sea of life? The waves of distress feel insurmountable and going under for the last time inevitable. Looking off in the distance, only the disaster seems visible, not the remedy.  

In this story in Acts, the choppy seas brought panic. Commanders debated what action would allow for the least loss of life while at the same time expecting some loss of life. In the meantime, Paul remained calm. He knew what the Lord wanted them to do and told the ones in charge.

The first measures they took? Cut the anchors and untie the ropes to the rudders, they had to let go of anything which held them in place up to that point. Not only that, they also had to leave the ship and get in that choppy water. What a scary proposition!

God told Paul the solution. Paul believed it enough to share it and do it. Anticipation of stormy waters does not conjure up warm fuzzy thoughts, but if God expects that for us, we have to know he will accompany us there. We have to do as Paul suggested – commit, obey, and get in the water.

I love the last verse of this chapter: “everyone safely reached the shore.” What hope for us all! Following God’s leading, allowing him to help us through – we will make it there too.

God, you know best. You do not promise us sunshine and roses all of the time, but you do promise to help us navigate the rough waters. We place our trust in you.

Susan Partida