In the Eye of the Storm (Thomas Nelson, 1991)
Comparing storms that stir up the Sea of Galilee with little or no warning to the adversities that devastate our lives, author Max Lucado states that such storms create doubts, questions and demands. As a result, we lose our joy and our song. When God, in turn, brings hurting people into our lives, that opportunity enables us to gain a vital perspective on our situation. When energy intended to be directed outward is turned inward, it becomes explosive. Yet, the author reminds us that “when all hell breaks loose, all heaven draws near.”
Following a life-altering adversity like a ministry downsizing or position loss, our lives are divided into 2 distinct halves- before the pain/after the pain. As the initial pain recedes, however, the greatest storm rages in our heart, not our circumstances. That’s why we need to maintain awareness of the joys and ordinary, yet remarkable life events we usually take for granted on our journey. Rather than being fixated on our problems, we need to have a clear vision of our ultimate reward. Max Lucado states that God “usually opts to measure the here and now against the there and then.” Our season of suffering is a small price to pay for such an unobstructed view of God.
It is during times of great adversity that great acts of faith are born, not during time of “calm calculation”. As Peter walked on the Sea of Galilee to meet Jesus he knew 2 facts- he was going down, but Jesus was staying up. Peter knew where he would rather be- and, Max adds, so do we. The author concludes that the essence of worship is an awareness that God has and continues to give us far more than we can give Him, that His touch keeps us from being hurting, bitter and broken. Max states: “Worship is the ‘thank you’ that refuses to be silenced.”