When Storms Arise

On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” Mk 4:35-41

Some Points for Reflection and Prayer

• The disciples have listen to Jesus gracious words - teaching like nothing they have ever heard. They are strongly attracted, and begin to seek after Jesus to hear more.

Consider your own attraction to Jesus and the Catholic faith - what is it that is attracting you - why do you stay with it?

• They have witnessed healing power result from his prayer. Spirits obey his authority.

Consider your own experience -  what moments of convincing experience stand out as strongly persuading for your faith? 

• A raging storm overtakes them on the sea - the boat is rapidly taking on water - sinking appears immanent - they are seized by fear.
• Jesus presence is not in doubt but his behavior is unexplainable - he is sleeping - sleeping!!! ".... do you not care that we are perishing?”

Consider your response in your "stormy times" - what is the measure of doubt that overtakes you - are you confused by the thought of Jesus being present with you, yet seeming to be of no help?

• Jesus "awakens", takes charge and the storm abates. “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?”

Consider that storms are real, fear comes naturally - so how do I know my faith is faltering - when I say "DON'T YOU CARE!"