Jesus calms a storm: Mark 4:35-41

Imaginative Contemplation

In so many ways, Jesus is our example in dealing with our daily lives. He recognised the need for a break after preaching for hours. Do I recognise my genuine needs and take time to regain my strength?

When moving in turbulent waters, do I take precautions against avoidable danger?

Do I have the faith to believe that God can bring good out of suffering, evil and death?

 

Enter into the scene

I saw that Jesus was very tired after preaching for so long. What really tired him was the constant bickering of the teachers of the Law. When he suggested that we should escape by boat across the Lake, I grabbed my inflatable pillow and climbed aboard. Jesus was already settling at the back of the boat, and I offered him my pillow. He took it gratefully and was asleep almost before I turned around.

We were about half way across the Lake when one of those strong blustery winds started up, and we soon found ourselves in the middle of a storm, water slapping over the boat in a dangerous way. We were all very wet and frightened, and turned to Jesus. He was asleep! How could he be?

One of the disciples shook him awake and shouted, ‘Don’t you care that we are about to die?’ Wide awake now, Jesus stood up immediately and commanded the wind, ‘Be quiet!’ and he said to the waves, ‘Be still!’ The wind died down and there was a great calm. We were so relieved. Then Jesus turned to us all and said, ‘Why are you so frightened? Where is your faith?’ I shook my head in confusion and joined the others as they asked, ‘Who is this man? Even the wind and waves obey him!’

Indeed, if he can calm a storm, it is no wonder that he can get rid of evil spirits in people, too. Sure enough, that was the very thing we witnessed when we reached the further shore.

For further reflection

Discuss with Jesus the following points:

  • How do I accept the kindness of others?

  • Do I notice when people are tired or stressed? What do I do to help them?

  • Do I trust that Jesus is with me, even when he seems to be asleep?

  • When I am stressed and agitated, do I pray for God’s peace?

  • ‘Never see a need without doing something about it.’ (Mary McKillop)

  • Who is Jesus? Who is Jesus for me?

Prayer

Lord, help me to ponder the words of this hymn:-

“Will you let me be your servant,

Let me be as Christ to you.

Pray that I may have the grace

To let you be my servant too.” Amen.