Sylvan Hills church of Christ

On one occasion as Jesus and His disciples were crossing the Sea of Galilee a fierce storm came upon them. They crossing to the other side because Jesus had suggested the trip and suddenly it had become dangerous. Along with other boats nearby, the one in which Jesus was on board was tossed by the waves and beginning to fill up with water. As the storm howled and water crashed upon the deck, it was noticed that Jesus was asleep on a cushion in the stern. With panic stricken voices, the disciples awoke Jesus and asked, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” Jesus quieted the storm and then asked, “Why are you so timid? How is it that you have no faith?” (Mk. 4:35-41 NASB).

When the storms come in our life it is easy to focus on the danger of the wind and the destruction of the waves. We may even become a little seasick and wonder if Jesus is aware of our perilous situation and if He cares. Walking by sight will result in fear and doubt. In contrast, walking by faith infuses confidence and perseverance. Faith believes calmness can be experienced at any moment because Jesus is on board. Faith is based upon knowing ahead of time, He cares.

Maybe today you need to pause from bailing water and make sure Jesus is on board. If He is in your life, the storm can be calmed on His perfect timing. If He is not, invite Him on board today.

Christ was born in the city of Bethlehem during the time that “a decree went out from Caesar Augustus” (Lk. 2:1). Who was Caesar Augustus?

Caesar Augustus was emperor over Rome from 31 B.C. to A.D. 14. Generally referred to as Octavian, he was the son of Julius Caesar. Since his father was recognized as a god by the Roman state, Octavian was known as “son of a god.” In 27 B.C., he took on the title of “Augustus” which was a religious term conferring upon him superiority over all others. He set up an Altar of Peace and was credited with establishing Roman Peace (Pax Romana).

It was during this time period that God sent forth His Son (Gal. 4:4; Heb. 1:1ff) who was the Prince of Peace (Isa. 9:6). His birth was attended to by angels who announced, “Peace on earth and good will toward men” (Lk. 2:14). God exalted His Son above all others so that at His name every knee shall bow (Phil. 2:9-11). Because Jesus was offered up once for all (Heb. 10:10), peace with God is available (Rom. 5:1). His kingdom, unlike that of Caesar Augustus, will have no end (Lk. 1:32,33).

Christ’s birth was as much a historical fact as the reign of Caesar Augustus. Isn’t it ironic that during the days of “son of a god” the one and only “Son of God” was born? Surely, God sighed at the so-called “Altar of Peace” while He was planning on sending the Prince of Peace. Pax Romana was nothing compared to the inner, indescribable, incomprehesible peace that Christ brings!