Discovering Jesus in the Storms

Have you ever felt like your life was getting flipped upside down, and somehow, amidst the chaos, you found a silver lining you couldn’t explain? Well, that’s kind of what happens when you have a close encounter with Jesus. And guess what? We’re diving deep into this concept with a new series titled Close Encounters with Jesus. Imagine, for a moment, walking side by side with Jesus and watching Him work miracles in the lives of everyday people. Sounds incredible, right?

The heart of this series is to explore nine life-changing encounters with Jesus. These aren’t just any stories; they’re about real people, like you and me, whose lives were transformed after meeting Jesus. It’s fascinating to see how Jesus, with His custom-made approach, meets us right where we are. He doesn’t use a one-size-fits-all solution because let’s face it, we’re all unique, and our struggles and dreams are too.

Take, for example, the story of “Wild Harry” from Mark Chapter 5. This guy was dealing with more than just your average bad day. He was tormented, isolated, and seemed beyond help. But then, Jesus steps in. What blows my mind here is the lengths to which Jesus went to reach him. Crossing a stormy sea, Jesus reached this man, bringing peace and restoration. It's a vivid reminder that no matter how stormy our lives get, Jesus is willing to step into our chaos.

The challenge for us is to think about our own encounters with Jesus. Have we allowed Him to step into our storms? The transformation Jesus brought into Harry’s life is a powerful testimony to the hope and change Jesus offers to each of us. It's about believing that no matter our past, our struggles, or how isolated we feel, Jesus’s presence can bring about a radical change.

But here’s the kicker: embracing Jesus's presence in our lives often means allowing Him to turn our world upside down. It’s about letting go of our fears, our plans, and sometimes, our comfort, to find a peace and purpose that only He can give. 

So, what’s your story? Have you experienced a close encounter with Jesus that has changed your life? Or are you still on the fence, watching from a distance? Whatever your story, know this: Jesus is actively seeking a close encounter with you, ready to step into your boat, calm your storms, and lead you to a life of profound transformation.

Let’s be real; change can be scary. But the story of Wild Harry shows us that no matter how lost we feel, there’s always hope for a new beginning. So, as we journey through these close encounters, let’s open our hearts to the possibilities that await when we allow Jesus to work in our lives. Who knows? Your story might just be the next one to inspire a transformation in someone else’s life!

- Adapted from sermons preached across our 3 campuses on 2/4/24