The One Who Is Ready

When the sea is calm, you cannot tell which ship
was built to be strong.
But when the calm sea raises great waves
and they come rushing at the ships,
that is when a well-built ship shows its true worth.
Those made ready by the word do not stand out when the world is at peace
and life is comfortable.
But when waves sweep over the world and the bright light is hidden,
that is when the word will begin to move.
Though the world’s waves crash over the one who is ready,
though darkness rolls in to tear down their faith,
they can never be shattered,
and nothing can hide that mighty power.
Only the one who is ready knows the will of God;
only the one who is ready looks to me
and, even on a road as narrow as a thread,
will go on singing praise.
So that I may step aboard your boat at any time,
be one who is ready.