December 16 - Bethsaida

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Bethsaida was a small town in the Galilee, located very close to the Jordan River where it would flow into the Sea of Galilee. Perhaps you remember it as the birthplace of three of Jesus’ disciples: Peter, Andrew, and Philip. It was also the location of many of Jesus’ miracles, among which was Jesus walking on the water and calming the sea (Mark 8:22-26).

If you remember, Jesus sent his disciples across the Sea of Galilee toward Bethsaida so he could spend time in prayer. Late at night, a strong wind came upon the sea, making it extremely difficult for the disciples to row against the fierceness of the storm. When they saw Jesus walking toward them on the water, they were terrified. At that point, scripture records amazing words of comfort to those who need peace in the midst of life’s storms: “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid” and as Jesus stepped into the boat the storm instantly calmed.

During this season of Advent, remember Jesus is the “Prince of Peace.” When Jesus says, “Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you (John 14:27), the peace he means is a quiet rest, stillness in your heart. He does not mean the absence of trouble, but peace in spite of trouble – a peace that moves us forward through all the difficult circumstances which are in our lives here and now.

This Christmas, remember one of the best Christmas gifts ever, his peace. Shalom!

Dr. Kay Wilson
Retired Friends Pastor




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