We know the Sea of Galilee is prone to fierce storms and winds. Sailors and fishermen on that sea would have known about them and experienced them repeatedly. This, however, did not make any such experience less hazardous and terrifying for them.
Suddenly, out of nowhere, a strong wind came up, throwing the boat to and fro on
the waves. The boat swayed, rose and dropped alarmingly and was tossed about like a child’s toy. The rough waves broke over the boat, filling it with water so that there was the danger of sinking. Remaining stable on one’s feet was impossible, and the panic and fear within the disciples was sickening.
Yet, we are told, ‘Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion’. How is this possible? He was exhausted, but surely, such a
fierce storm would have woken anyone. Why did it take the disciples’ shouting to arouse him?
The saying goes, ‘Life happens!’. Everyday life certainly happened for them all that day, yet their reactions were so different. Today, ponder and discuss this part of the story with Jesus.
We all worry about the big and small storms that roar into our lives to some extent. In
these personal situations, many feel swamped by waves of many different kinds. Life is hazardous.
How do I react to life happening around me?
How do I weather the stormy times in my life, especially when they are severe? How can I be like Jesus in these instances?
Reflections by Reggie Venter
