My wife, Karen, and I love to sail. She is the more experienced sailor, having owned her own sailboat at one time. However, we both love the thrill and serenity of sailing on open waters. Recently, we decided to go sailing on Lake Erie. Neither of us have sailed on the great lake previously, so we decided to hire a captain.

 We found Captain Ron (not the guy from the movie) a crusty old veteran of WW2, the CIA, and many a sailing student. Captain Ron met us at the harbor, gave us a tour of his sailboat, and took us out to sea (lake). In spite of his rough edges, Captain Ron was very gentle and helpful in navigating the large body of water.

“I know every mile of this lake,” he said, and with that statement we had confidence sailing unfamiliar waters.

We enjoyed our day on the lake. We took comfort in knowing we were with someone who had the wisdom and experience to handle any of the challenges that could come our way.

Sometimes life can be like getting into a sailboat in unfamiliar waters. As you see the new storm approaching on the horizon, you worry if your going to have what it takes to endure it.

Hebrews 4:15 tells us that Jesus was tempted and tried in every way known to man, yet he is without sin. In other words, he is the experienced captain on sea of life. Nothing happens that he cannot handle. He understands pain, suffering, heartbreak and betrayal. Just as he experienced the pleasure of sand between his toes, and the dirty residue it left behind, his heart was pleased and pained by the people he came into contact with. 

Jesus offers a perspective. He understands and He cares.