Two Very Different Captains

 
Many of you have seen images or heard about the massive cruise ship that capsized earlier this week. It's truly a miracle that this didn't become a one of the most tragic "Titanic-like" maritime disasters of all time. This definitely had nothing to do with the captain of the ship. He abandoned his ship very quickly to save his own life, thinking he would give directions from a megaphone on his life boat. I thought it was the responsibility of the ship's captain to make sure that everyone gets off safely, doing everything he can to make sure this happens. This usually implies that he would be the last one off the ship, once all passengers and staff are safe, but now this captain is in jail facing a list of many charges including manslaughter. I'm so thankful for all the fathers, mothers, teachers, pastors and others who carry huge responsibility, and yet don't abandon ship when they encounter difficulties, unlike this ship's captain. A powerful contrasting picture is that of captain "Sully" Sullenberger. He's the airline pilot who was miraculously able to land his commercial airliner safely in the Hudson River. Once he'd made sure everyone had gotten off the plane safely, he went back inside the cabin just to make sure he hadn't missed anyone, in all the commotion. This is what being a true captain is all about. It takes courage, boldness and strength to be a great leader. Next time you're around someone who has a lot of responsibility, don't forget to thank them and pray for them. And if you're a leader in some realm, be courageous! I'm thankful that Jesus didn't abandon ship when it came to us :)