Mark 4:35–41—Terrified by a storm which came upon them quickly on the Sea of Galilee, the disciples were powerless to escape it or overcome it. Jesus, however, through whom all things were created (John 1:3), is able to calm the seas by the command of His voice. After all, He is God, who brought all things into existence by speaking, ‘Let there be…’ (Genesis 1)
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 the Father’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.
Jesus asked the men in the boat “have you no faith?” Scared to death from the storm, the disciples awaken Jesus and rebuke him “Don’t you care that we perish?” Jesus not care – how could they accuse him after all the good things they already had seen him do? These hardened, seasoned men – some professional fishermen – were scared to death. Jesus asked them why they were afraid. In the light of the storm, it seemed like a foolish question. Who wouldn’t be scared except maybe Jesus only? The answer to fear is faith. If they had faith, they would not have been frightened. A storm calls for faith in the care and protection of God. 1
Collect for Pentecost 4: Almighty God, in Your mercy guide the course of this world so that Your Church may joyfully serve You in godly peace and quietness; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen 2
Sources:
Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts “Jesus asleep in the ship” copyright © WELS for personal and congregational use
1. Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series B, John Brokhoff © 1981 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH
2. Collect for Pentecost 4, Lutheran Worship © 1980 Concordia Publishing House, St., Louis
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