¶ Welcome and Introduction
Welcome to the Caruso Daily Devotional , a resource to equip , encourage and challenge you to live a life that shares the good news of Jesus .
¶ Children Pretending to Drown
Have you ever gotten tired of treading water ? Martha is a 20-something-old lifeguard in Los Angeles . Besides dealing with deck chairs purposely thrown into the water and parents asking her to babysit poolside , she's noticed another aspect of the job that really tugs at your heart . Quote kids pretend to drown in the pool so that I will pay attention to them .
Wow , think about that . At a young age , humans need to be nurtured and cared for . They want to be loved , so a young lifeguard becomes their emotional lifeline . These kids were actually pretending to nearly die so that someone would pay attention . It's pretty sad , but not that different from the rest of us .
Everyone wants to belong and sometimes life is like a raging storm and problems can flood the soul .
¶ Peter Walking on Water
In Matthew 14 , we read the story of Jesus providing comfort to his disciples in a difficult situation . He had gone to pray on a mountain where they stayed behind in a boat on the Sea of Galilee . Normally this is a very picturesque , calm lake , but this night a storm came up as the waves were about to capsize the boat .
The men looked and saw a figure walking on the water . Peter cried out and Jesus told him to get out of the boat and walk toward him . Peter , known for his passionate faith , got out , but as he took his eyes off Jesus and began looking at the storm around him , he sank . Jesus , though , grabbed his arm and pulled him up .
Why did you doubt , he asked Peter . It's a valid question for anyone . Jesus has proven himself to us many times over . When you feel overwhelmed , remember to call out to him and he will lift your burden . Let's pray , father God . Sometimes it feels like life is just pulling us under .
We thank you so much that we have examples from scripture where you rescued drowning people . You're indeed our lifeguard . Help us keep this in our
¶ Closing Prayer
hearts and our minds daily , so that we can be reminded of your blessed assurance and to call out your name , the one who provides for all of our needs . In Jesus' name , amen .