The Stormy Night:
Is this life on Earth. It isn't always stormy, night, cold and wet, or threatening. In fact, there are times, when it's bright, calm, and clear, that things like lighthouses seem entirely unnecessary. That, however, is not addressed in this parable, and could merit one of its very own. This is about the storm; when life is dark, when we feel lost and lonely, and when the waves of tribulation just seem relentless.
"...when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you..."
The Other People on Deck:
We are surrounded by people. Everywhere you go, there are men and women, brothers and sisters, who are each living their own lives. Many of them are weathering storms of their own, and are struggling to find peace and solace in their trials. They don't know where to look for help, but they are strong and are doing everything they can to survive and weather the storm as best they can.
The Flashlight:
Is the Gift of the Holy Ghost. It is a light that we can rely on to direct us personally in all things. However, it is a gift we must receive. That doesn't just mean it needs to be given to us, but we also must choose to seek it. A flashlight is useless if you don't press the button. The Holy Ghost is dormant if we don't ask for it's guidance. Also, although the beam is brilliant and clear, it only works for us. Others cannot see the light it brings us, or receive it's witness secondhand. Although it can guide us here and now to find shelter in the storm, it cannot guide the ship as a whole to shore. It can only direct you.
However, you can use it to help others.
"For behold, again I say unto you that if ye will enter in by the way, and receive the Holy Ghost, it will show unto you all things what ye should do."
The People Locked Below Deck:
Are those who have received a witness, but do not use this knowledge to help others. They feel safe knowing they have secured their salvation, but they do not offer this hope and light to others.
"Behold, I sent you out to testify and warn the people, and it becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor."
The Wheel:
Is the call to lead and serve others. We all must be a leader at some point in our lives. It may be in the mission field. It may be in the home with your children. It may be as a captain on a sports team. It may be as an older brother or sister, a concerned friend (or stranger), giving a talk or accepting a church calling. We are all called upon to take the wheel at some point in our lives, for the betterment of others. When that time comes, we must all make the decision: Will I grab the wheel?
"And he led them on safely, so that they feared not: but the sea overwhelmed their enemies."
(and finally)
The Lighthouse:
Is the Prophet of God. We all receive our own portion of the light by the Holy Ghost, but only one is called to direct the children of God through the storms that we face today. His voice pierces through the wind and the rain, calling us to safety and guiding us through the rocky shallows.
I know that God speaks to us through His prophets, not to command us, but to bring us safely home. If we choose to follow the light. We can brave the storm alone, if we choose. But we have a lighthouse because a Loving Father wants us all to make a safe voyage home.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
