One evening Jesus and His disciples set out by boat across the Sea of Galilee. Tired after a long day, Jesus fell asleep. Suddenly a fierce storm arose and the waves began to fill the boat. The disciples, experienced fishermen, were terrified.
When God seems to be asleep
The disciples woke Jesus, asking whether He did not care that they were perishing. Perhaps we too have sometimes felt that God was asleep while we struggled with the waves of life. Yet the story shows us that Jesus was in the same boat with them, right in the middle of the storm.
Jesus “arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39). The One who created the sea has authority over it.
A question for our faith
After the storm had calmed, Jesus asked His disciples a gentle but searching question: “Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?” (Mark 4:40). He did not blame them for calling on Him, but invited them to know Him better and to trust Him even when He seems silent.
The storms of life do not always disappear immediately. Sometimes Jesus calms the storm; sometimes He calms our heart in the middle of it. Either way, we are not alone in the boat.
For reflection
What storm are you going through right now? Read Mark 4:35-41 and imagine yourself in the boat with the disciples. What would you like to say to Jesus at this moment?
Bible verses are quoted from the King James Version.