Jesus Passing By

 ^“Late at night, the boat was far out at sea; Jesus was still by himself on land. He could see his men struggling with the oars, the wind having come up against them. At about four o’clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them, walking on the sea. He intended to go right by them. But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and screamed, scared out of their wits.

Jesus was quick to comfort them: “Courage! It’s me. Don’t be afraid.” As soon as he climbed into the boat, the wind died down. They were stunned, shaking their heads, wondering what was going on. They didn’t understand what he had done at the supper. None of this had yet penetrated their hearts.”(Mark 6:47-52 MSG)

I have read this passage so many times in the past. I’m usually focused on the parts about Jesus walking on water, telling the disciples to calm down, and then calming the storm. However, this time, the line that stood out to me was: “He intended to go right by them.”

Why would Jesus intend to go right by them? Did Jesus not plan to help the disciples in their struggle?

I think Jesus walked right by them because He wanted them to notice His presence. Jesus wanted them to cease struggling and recall that His power was sufficient in previous crises—and thus will be sufficient in the present crisis. Jesus wanted the disciples to call out for help. He wanted to be invited into the unstable situation.

Lord, help us to cease struggling and call out to you as you pass by. You are just waiting to be asked to come in to our lives and comfort us. Help us to remember all the times you have rescued and saved us. Help us to calm down and trust you to take care of us.