For many of us trusting in Jesus is a bit difficult.  After all, we can’t see him.

We hear people tell stories of “placing their trust in Jesus” or “surrendering their lives to Jesus” and we think, “good for you, but I’m a bit more cautious.”  Or maybe you even use the word “skeptical.”

I think what makes us hesitant is we are defining Jesus on how we’ve seen others behave in his name.  They may have been a hypocrite, they may have been manipulative, they may have been condemning and condescending.  Seeing Jesus as your church going step-father who never missed church… or as your angry and condemning mother who used Bible verses to threaten you… can make us a bit skeptical of Jesus.  

Take a look at this account the disciples have with Jesus:

‘But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn’t come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum. Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough. They had rowed three or four miles when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified, but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here! Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination!’ John 6:17-21

At first glance we think, “Oh, look how trusting they were of Jesus. Once he says who he is, they welcome him into the boat.”  

But keep in mind one key difference they have that you may not – they had spent time with him.   This was not their first meeting. They had come to know who he REALLY was. And when he said “It’s me” they were “eager to let him in the boat.”

Jesus says this about himself “Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matt. 11:29-30)

If that’s not how you’ve thought of Jesus, then you need to spend some more time getting to know him.  Then, it might be much easier to “let him in your boat”.