Choice: Panic or Trust?

This is the first of four consecutive cameos recorded by Luke, showing Jesus’ authority over nature and evil in its various forms. As the incidents unfold they show Jesus’ power over desperate situations, bringing peace. Mark writes that this first one happened at the end of the day on which Jesus shared the parable of the soils (Mark 4:35-41). Their destination is across the lake in Gentile territory, a rare trip for Jesus. Tired after a day’s teaching, Jesus fell into a deep sleep, seemingly oblivious to the life-threatening storm (23). As the boat started filling with water the disciples panicked. Their repetitive cry of “Master” (24) expressed terror plus respect, whilst Mark’s version adds a reproachful comment about his lack of care (Mark 4:38).

Their fear of drowning typifies the sense of helplessness we can experience in the midst of overwhelming circumstances. They couldn’t see that simply having Jesus right there with them transformed the situation immediately. Instead, the threatening waves filled their horizon, leaving no room for a faith that trusted not just Jesus’ power to intervene but also his timing in doing so. They had seen him change water into wine, heal people from crippling diseases, deal authoritatively with the demonic and even raise the dead to life! And yet they still weren’t sure about him, his commitment to them, his transformational power and, in particular, his identity.

Jesus rebuked the wind and waves (24), the verb possibly implying that there could be an evil force behind them. As the storm calmed, he questioned his disciples’ faith (25). He asks us the same gentle penetrating question when our grip on faith in him eludes us and we thrash around trying to handle things on our own.

Pray for Christians in conflict-torn countries, living in fear for their lives, that they might know God’s protection and provision. How could you be part of the prayer’s answer?