by Carol Cooper

Scripture:  Take a moment to read John 8:1-11.

Devotional Thought:  This Scripture talks of the teachers of the law and the Pharisees questioning Jesus…In The Message version of the Bible we read they were badgering Jesus.  The New Living Translation says “they kept demanding an answer.”  You get the picture–they wouldn’t let up. They wanted Jesus to answer them, so they kept going on and on. Jesus, though, remains calm and is playing in the dirt. I love this picture–even when we are screaming at Jesus because we want an answer, Jesus remains calm. Even when numerous people are in his face, demanding an answer, Jesus remains calm. Jesus remains calm in the chaos of our lives–when the storms are raging and the sea waters rise, Jesus speaks peace and calms the waves. Even when we are out of control, Jesus is in control.

Prayer Focus:  When life seems out of control, remember Jesus is in control–he can even control the wind and the sea…focus on Jesus’ words: “He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm.” (Mark 4:39, NRSV)