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35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” (Mark 4:35-41 NIV Bible)
A note of special privilege as I wish my bride a very Happy Birthday on this day! She has been the best gift from God for all occasions! I love you, Nellie! May God bless you with many more!
People of a certain generation will remember the famous storm that had a song to it, "The weather started getting rough; the tiny ship was tossed. If not for the courage of the fearless crew, the Minnow would be lost!" Kids, ask your grandparents what this song and the storm is all about. And earlier today, my wife told me that this coming week there will be a Tropical Storm in the Gulf of Mexico. Most people do not like storms. Most Texans have lived through several hurricanes and have tales to tell about them. I remember being an intern minister in Mission when a big hurricane was due to hit the area and my being asked by the Red Cross to go into the fellowship hall to get the names and contact information for those there, including Next of Kin information for the just in case. My prayer life at that moment grew!
The disciples of Jesus were familiar with the sudden, unexpected storms in the Sea of Galilee, but they were not fans of such storms. Some years ago, Nellie and I crossed this same sea in a wooden boat. Our guide and professor spoke of the geographical components of the area that made such squalls as the one in this story so powerful and unpredictable. The storm allowed Jesus to show His power and authority over the elements of nature. It also allows for us to see the human side of Jesus too. All of Jesus' days were filled with the expected and the unexpected; all tired Him out and as the storm rages, Jesus, tired from the days leading to this moment, falls asleep. While He's sleeping the squall's power makes the water break over the boat to the point of almost sinking. The disciples awaken Jesus and yell their question at Him; "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" Jesus does not need to say another; He just calms the storm with the words, "Quiet! Be still!" The wind obeys and dies down; and the sea was calm.
This passage reminds us that even in the midst of life's storms—whether they be literal storms of nature or metaphorical storms of challenges and uncertainties—Jesus is present and in control. His authority extends over every aspect of creation, including the storms that threaten to overwhelm us.
Yet, Jesus' question to His disciples echoes through the ages: "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" It prompts us to examine our own hearts in times of trial. Do we trust in Jesus' sovereignty and goodness, or do we allow fear to cloud our faith?
PRAYER: Loving God, Thank You for the assurance that You are with us in every storm of life. We confess our tendency to be overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. Help us, Lord, to trust in Your unfailing presence and power, knowing that You are in control. Just as You calmed the storm on the Sea of Galilee, calm the storms in our hearts and lives today. Grant us peace that surpasses understanding, and strengthen our faith in Your promises. May we always turn to You in times of trouble, finding refuge and strength in Your loving care. In Your mighty name, we pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Reflect on a recent challenge or storm you've faced. How did you respond? Did fear dominate your thoughts, or did you trust in God's sovereignty? Consider how you can deepen your faith and reliance on God in the face of future trials. Spend time in prayer, asking God to increase your trust in Him and to help you remember His faithfulness in past storms. Seek opportunities to share your testimony of God's peace and provision with others who may be facing their own storms, offering encouragement and hope through your experiences of God's grace.
I love you and I thank God for you!
Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.
