In Mark 4:35–41 Jesus and his disciples encountered a raging storm while crossing the lake in a boat. Exhausted, Jesus had fallen asleep, oblivious to the disaster bearing down on them. When awakened by his frightened disciples, Jesus rebuked the howling wind and crashing waves. With peace and calm restored, the disciples were suddenly terrified by their master. “Who is this?” they asked each other, “Even the wind and the waves obey him!” They had never witnessed such power. Jesus was unruffled by the threatening storm that had petrified his disciples. His contingency plan for all emergencies was simple. Resisting fear by trusting in his Audience of One, Jesus acted in the certain knowledge that his Father was in control. He stood confidently to confront the tempest, unwilling to surrender to the stress of the moment. Serving leaders maintain faith in God to overcome fear and instill courage in those committed to their leadership.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

KEY QUESTIONS: Typically what is my initial reaction to fear? How might I remind myself to trust in my “Audience of One” when gripped with fear? Considering the outcomes from past experiences where fear was a powerful and overwhelming emotion, how might I respond differently today? What is my contingency plan for future emergencies?