Mark suggests that people ‘flocked’ to see and hear Jesus. Jesus’ life was hectic. People crowded around him constantly, which must have been tiring. Yet, he poured himself out to them in healing and teaching.
On this occasion, Jesus had been teaching the people from a boat on the water’s edge at the Sea of Galilee. We read that
Jesus taught them many things, so he must have spent the whole day there with them. When evening came, it was time to withdraw and rest. Jesus suggested they get away and ‘go over to the other side’. The disciples left the crowd behind and took Jesus ‘just as he was’.
So, how was Jesus as they began the trip to the other side of the sea?
I imagine he must have been physically exhausted after the bustle of the
crowds, the hot sun and the long day’s teaching assignment on the seashore. But, at the same time, Jesus must have also been spiritually at peace, having done that day what his Father had sent him to do. Naturally, he would fall asleep in the rocking boat.
As we ponder the story of the calming of the storm this week, perhaps today you might like to ‘get into it’ by considering how your life has been lately. Bring that to your prayer.
Have you been through troubled waters recently, or have you been sailing calm seas?
How has life challenged me physically lately? How have I experienced my work? Am I satisfied and at peace within, or am I troubled? Have I been restless or sleeping well? Do I feel like Jesus is with me right now, or does he feel distant?
Reflections by Reggie Venter
