The Priceless Treasure of ChristmasSample

Into the Chaos of Life Comes Christ…

One evening, as the disciples sailed across the Sea of Galilee, a storm arose without warning. Waves crashed over the boat, the wind roared, and the vessel rocked violently as the sea threatened to consume them.

These were experienced fishermen — they had seen bad weather before — but this storm was different. It was relentless. It was terrifying. Meanwhile, Jesus was asleep in the stern of the boat. Frantically, they shook Him awake, shouting, “...Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” (Mark 4:38, NKJV).

Have you ever felt that way? Drowning in fear, burdened by circumstances beyond your control, wondering if God sees you and if He cares?

Jesus rose, spoke to the wind and waves, and said, “...Peace, be still!” (Mark 4:39, NKJV). Instantly, the storm stopped. The winds ceased. The waters calmed. The disciples stood in awe. Who was this Man that even the storm obeyed Him? He was, is, and always will be the Prince of Peace!

You may feel like the disciples — rowing against the storm, certain the waves will swallow you whole. But know this today: You are not forgotten.

• Before you ever felt hunger, God made the earth capable of producing food.
• Before you ever felt the cold, He placed gas and oil deep in the ground and gave sheep the ability to grow wool to warm you.
• Before you ever cried a single tear, He counted them and stored them in a bottle (Psalm 56:8).

Your friends may forget you, but He hasn’t. Your spouse may have walked away, but He is still here. Your parents may have abandoned you, but He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Isaiah 49:15 (NKJV) comfortingly says, “Can a woman forget her nursing child, and not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, yet I will not forget you.”

The stars are as numberless as the sand of the sea, yet He calls them all by name. Likewise, God knows where you are right now. He knows what’s weighing on your heart, the burdens you’re carrying, and the storms you’re battling. He is as close as the mention of His Name!