2.26.2015
Thursday of Lent 1
Mark 4:21-41 Parables concerning the
Kingdom, the stilling of a storm
Jesus Sleeps
During a Storm
Jesus tells two parables concerning the kingdom. These two
parables of the kingdom of God give insight into the mystery of the kingdom
hidden to outsiders but revealed to the disciples. The first parable of the
secret growing points to the growth of the kingdom. The kingdom of God had not yet
arrived but it is in control of things and is in the process of being fulfilled
through the ministry of the church. The second parable stresses contrast
between the smallness of the see and the ultimate greatness of the kingdom. The
kingdom of God began in the smallest way of Jesus’ ministry but one day it will
embrace the earth.[2]
When Jesus completes His teaching with
parables, He and His disciples cross the Sea of Galilee to minister to
Gentiles. A storm threatens to drown them while Jesus, exhausted from His work
and at peace with God an Himself sleeps in the boat. They awaken Jesus and
accuse Him of not caring. Not caring if they perish. Jesus tells the winds and
the water to be still. A great calm follows. Then Jesus asks them why they were
afraid and where their faith was. Filled with awe, they ask, “Who then is
this?” The disciples failed to grasp the nature of Jesus and His work.
How soundly Jesus must have slept! Can
you imagine anyone sleeping when waves toss the boat around like a cork, with
water splashing into the boat, and twelve men scampering and yelling in fear of
drowning? His sleeping indicates how worn out Jesus was from His constant
ministering, but it also indicates His complete relaxation resulting from His
faith in God’s providence and protection. It was not the sleep of a Jonah who
used sleep as an escape from reality. Jesus’ sleep was one of perfect trust in
the Father’s care.[3]
Early Christians would remember this event
when facing opposition and persecution. When you bear the cross, for being
Christian remember how Christ came to the rescue of His early disciples.
Affliction and difficulty often find us. When these troubles times come the
Lord will use these circumstances to draw us closer to Himself and in the end
strengthen our faith. (see Hebrews 12:5-11) Daily His grace is sufficient for
the day. When you find yourself in great peril, trust in his grace and
forgiveness. 1 John 1:7
Strengthen us, O Lord,
by your grace, that in your might we may overcome all spiritual enemies, and
with pure hearts serve you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns
with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.[4]
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