A HAVEN FOR THE WEARY

Our 55 foot yacht felt like it was drifting. The winds had not been too favorable and anxiety of arriving in Newport, R.I. in time for the return race to Bermuda was playing on our minds when the owner/captain woke me and asked if I would take the next watch. It was a pleasure to get out of the damp sleeping bag and take in the beautiful night behind the helm of this craft. It was something I had always wanted to do. I was wide awake as I climbed on deck in readiness. A slight rustle in one of the rolled sails caught my attention. It did not move again so I manipulated into a position where I could examine closely what I sensed was present. There was a tern, nestled quite comfortably and making no indication to move. My next statement was: “See what I found!” As quickly as it came out of my mouth I corrected it by saying: “See who found us!”

When one considers the Scriptures, he is reminded of the words of Jonah: “Salvation is of the Lord.” (2:9) Like the most familiar of verses, John 3:16, the origin of salvation is God… “He so loved that He gave His only begotten Son…” John Peterson penned it so beautifully: “In my darkness Jesus found me, touched my eyes and made me see”. Why God sought me out is beyond human comprehension… but He did. That little bird reminded me of a great truth of Scripture. God did the seeking; I did the responding… that because I was acted upon by the Holy Spirit of God Himself. It is by the grace of God alone that man experiences salvation. (Eph. 2:8, 9)

It is said that D.L. Moody declared that when he reached heaven’s gates, probably on the outside will say: “Whosoever will, may come!” Whereas, on the inside it will say: “Chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world.” On the sea of life there is a haven of rest for the weary… His Name is Jesus.