Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Astonishment (02/02/12)
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TITLE: Captain, My Captain | Previous Challenge Entry
By Dimple Suit
02/08/12 -
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How often have we experienced emotional upheaval or spiritual battle like the raging storm described above? Tossed on a sea of uncertainty over the loss of something, or someone, we reach feebly for the ship’s wheel, trying to steer it to calmer waters. We ride the waves and drown ourselves in regret, in doubt. We fail to remember He is the guiding star, the One on whom we can rely through every trial. He is our lighthouse, our life preserver, for He is the sacrificial offering. Our passport stamped with His blood is our ticket to heaven. His love and mercy are deeper than we can fathom.
True believers do not grab the boat to hang on; they thrill in the rush, the ride infusing their faith with adrenaline, focus, strength, and purpose! They count on their Super Hero, Jesus, to lead them to safety, to give them grace to accept the rocky shoals as opportunity. Oh yes, I failed the test. Though I always enjoyed the ride before, I wanted off this roller coaster. I want to stand on solid ground and leave these swells for I am afraid.
Amazingly, I find God’s timing is perfect as I study in Matthew and James. I discover Jesus rebukes the storms around me if I only call on Him. He opens His arms to hold me, to comfort me, and dry my tears. He laughs with me sharing the joy of adventure, of discovery, as we sail to new horizons. He wants me to experience the exhilaration of His calming the raging sea knowing He is strengthening my faith in Him as He does so. He is the Captain of the boat, not me. He knows the best course to reach our destination and I must let Him lead me, restore me, and fill me with wonder. However, I must get out of the way. Two years now, I have been a hindrance to His work. Rewriting the opening for His glory, He tells me.
When storms gather, go My child; rejoice in the rain. Race along the shore, play catch with the foamy waves, and gather driftwood. Fish and bring the catch I give you to supper. Set the table for a feast, give thanks for My provisions, and break bread with them. Share your story, telling them of the rainbow waiting beyond the clouds. Do not forget to enlighten them of your failures for they will be encouraged by your honesty, your perseverance. Let them know you held on to the world before finding peace in the release of it. Show them I am their beacon of hope, their safe harbor, as I am with you always.
Captain, My Captain, Standing on the solid rock of Your love, wash me in Your cleansing blood. Rid me of the grime of my inequities. I give thanks, for the tears of trials will bring great joy. Basking in Your eternal light, I look to the heavens. You guide me to cast off doubt and sail away with You. I fill with awe knowing You are my lifeboat, my Captain. You lead me to cruise in security when I follow You by faith, not sight. As I stay the course with You, You chart my progress and measure the calm waters of my soul. I will not run from fear. I run to Your open arms in glorious abandon, eagerly embracing our next exploration into the future You have planned for me. Amen!
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Though I liked them and thought they were quite creative, the opening paragraph may have gone a tad overboard for my tastes.
Later on, when you spoke more directly, I felt a greater connection. The prayer is awesome! (you may want to put prayer in italics to set it apart. Just put a at the start and a at the end).
But this is a beautiful, almost poetic piece of writing.