when Jesus happens

Devotions from Jefferson Vann # 2404

John 6:16-21

Joh 6:16 When evening happened, his disciples went down to the sea,
Joh 6:17 and got into a boat, and started across the sea toward Capernaum. Darkness had already happened, but Jesus had not yet come to them.
Joh 6:18 And the sea, due to a high wind blowing, began to stir up.
Joh 6:19 This is why after they had rowed about twenty stadia, they saw Jesus walking on the sea. He was nearing the boat, and they were afraid.
Joh 6:20 But he said to them, “I am. Don’t be afraid.”
Joh 6:21 That was why they wanted to take him into the boat, and at once the boat was at the shore where they had intended to reach.

when Jesus happens

What struck me when reading this text in the Greek is how many times John used the word γίνομαι (to become or happen). It appears four times in this short passage (16,17,19,21). Other Gospel writers emphasized other things when relating the story of Jesus walking on water. John appears to emphasize the fact that our experience with Jesus cannot be controlled or manipulated. He is the I AM, so he is going to happen to us. We may not be ready for him when he happens next. We may not be “prayed up” or spiritually in tune. But it is not about the measure of our faith or our frame of mind. It is about him.

LORD, interrupt our lives. Come and happen among us.