Traveling is often filled with adventure and unpredictable occurrences. During my last trip, both flights were delayed due to maintenance issues. This was a blessing in disguise because without the second flight delay, there would have been no way to make that connection, leading to an undesirable need to overnight.
As this journey was coming to an end, the pilot’s voice was heard during the descent. “Passengers, prepare for landing. Ensure that seatbelts are securely fastened. This aircraft is the largest in our fleet, and we are landing on the shortest runway. So, expect us to be heavy on the brakes when we land. Brace yourself as needed.”
My wife looked at me wide-eyed and immediately began saying a prayer. The next several minutes were a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. As the plane touched down, we breathed a sigh of relief. (We rate landings on a scale of 1 to 10, assessing smoothness and control. I tend to be an easier grader than my wife.) On any measure, this landing was an excellent one.
As the pilot braked heavily, I reflected and realized that his words had helped prepare my mind for what was to come. The taxiing was not as bad as previously expected.
Life is filled with unexpected twists and turns. These unpredictable circumstances and events often cause us anxiety, doubt, and fear. We wonder whether we will experience a “safe landing” through it all. Like the pilot on that aircraft, Jesus has given His children an alert of what we should expect as we journey in John 16:33 when He said,
“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
His words let us know that:
1. There will be turbulent times. We ought not to be surprised when difficulty and trouble come. It is a part of the journey.
2. Jesus has assured a safe landing. His redemptive work assures that nothing will prevent His children from being over-comers.
3. We ought to have peace in the face of the turbulence. Jesus’ assurance ought to give us peace and joy amidst the trials of life.
We are incapable of knowing where and when the journey of life will get bumpy and uncomfortable. But we know it will at times. Let’s all ensure that Jesus is our pilot. When this is the case, His words can provide peace, comfort, and joy, and while we need to fasten our seatbelts, a safe landing is promised.