Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Mark 4:35-41.
As I read this today, I noticed that in an earlier reading, I had underlined the words in Verse 1, “when evening came.” The fact that it was evening and dark made this storm on the Sea of Galilee even more scary for the apostles. It is almost humorous that, as they wrung their hands and feared for their lives, Jesus slept peacefully on a cushion in the stern of the boat.
Early in 2020, a large group of us from Christ Church made a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to Israel. Our tour guide had made reservations for us to take a boat ride across the Sea of Galilee. When we arrived at the dock, the wind was blowing pretty hard, and there was a mist in the air. But once we were out on the water, the sea got really rough, and the rain blew hard into our faces. We were perfectly safe, but most of us came away with a little deeper appreciation for the apostles’ boat ride in that raging storm. Sometimes when I cry out to God in fear, it is as if I hear Jesus saying, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Yes, but I need more faith!
Personal Worship Option:
I like to remember that Jesus could simply rebuke the wind and waves, and both became quiet and calm. If he could do that, Jesus can handle any of my storms. In fact, I can handle them if I take my strength and courage from him.
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