Instruction
Scripture: Mark 4:35-41
Mark recorded the account of Jesus calming the sea after a
series of parables about the kingdom of God. In this passage Jesus fell asleep
in the boat as they crossed the Sea of Galilee. When a storm arose which
threatened to sink the boats, the disciples woke Jesus and he calmed the sea.
This serves as a tangible example of the kingdom of God having broken into the
world in Jesus, and his action show his authority as they call us to put our
faith in him.
Teaching
People will speak of the storms of life and use this passage
as an allegory for how Jesus can bring peace into every aspect of our lives.
There is truth in that idea, but there is something more profound going on
here. While Jesus does indeed rescue the disciples from the tossing sea, his
question to them is, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?”
There is no promise in this passage that God will calm all
the metaphorical storms of our lives. Instead there is a sense that God will be
with us in the midst of all those storms. There is a call to trust him with our
lives and to know that he does indeed care that we are perishing, but there is
no need to fear. Jesus himself suffered the storms of life even to the point of
death in order to win everlasting life for us. He will certainly not abandon us
in our time of need.
Life
Where do we find ourselves asking God, “Do you not care that
we are perishing?” Is it when we receive a dreaded diagnosis from the doctor?
Is it when we hurt for our children’s sorrows? Is it when we are estranged from
someone we love? All of these, and many other circumstances, can make us feel
like we are dying, or want to die. Jesus’ response to that pain is to say,
“Trust me.”
The kingdom of God has broken into your life, and Jesus is
present in and with you. The situation might be terrifying and heartbreaking,
but Jesus understands and he will bring you through it. Remember that he faced
a terrifying and heartbreaking death in order to win your salvation. What can
he do with your life as he brings you through the hard times?
Prayer
The theme of this
prayer is Petition.
O Lord, maker of the sea and the sky, be with us in the
storms of life. There are many people experiencing painful situations. They
have lost loved ones, been diagnosed with illnesses, have had their hearts broken
by people they love, suffer from terrible temptations, and are wracked with
guilt. Help them know that you are there with them and that you will not
abandon them. Help all of us who face hard times to trust your good and
gracious will for us even when we suffer. Fill our hearts with faith and trust
that no matter what happens to us your promises are certain and they will be
kept. We ask that when our hearts are in turmoil like a tossing sea that you
would speak your command, “Peace! Be still!” and that we would know that you
are God who loves us, provides for us, defends us, and delivers us from all
evil. Grant us awe at your power, confidence in your will, and peace in your
love. Amen.
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