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The Other Side

Jesus had just spent the day teaching a crowd of people on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. When the sermon was over, he said to his disciples, “Let us go across to the other side” (Mark 4:35).

This invitation has always captured my imagination. In the most practical sense, Jesus was inviting his followers to come with him across the lake. But in a broader sense, his invitation applies to all followers of Christ. He is committed to taking us further on our journey with him. He is forever leading us to the other side.

Where in your life do you need to cross over to the other side with Jesus? Maybe you need to get on the other side of your doubts. Or maybe you need to get on the other side of fragility. Circumstances have worn you down and you’ve found yourself cracking under the pressure.

The invitation to go with Jesus to the other side is compelling because it is hopeful. If he calls you to the other side, it means you can change. You can live with a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7), a joy that goes beyond words (1 Peter 1:8), and a hope that endures any trial (Romans 15:13).

The apostle Paul wrote, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). This is a glimpse into the Christian life, which was always intended to be one that crosses over to the other side, the side of power and victory.

Following Jesus to the other side takes commitment and endurance. But life is unpredictable. We don’t need “ten steps to Christian endurance”—we need a Swiss Army knife. We need one tool that can serve us in a thousand situations, enabling us to overcome the challenges we face. We need faith.

Faith is that deep “inner knowing” that can propel you through any trial. It’s more than an intellectual conviction or an emotional experience. It’s strengthened every time we reflect on God’s truth and apply it to our lives. Whenever faith gets stronger, endurance increases. And we are ready to move to wherever Jesus is leading us.

Lord, what are you calling me to today? What do I need to give up so I can follow you? I pray for greater faith so that I can cross with you to the other side. Amen.