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After a long day spent preaching, Jesus us curled up at the stern of a boat, sleeping soundly as his disciples steer the vessel. All at once, the winds pick up, huge waves lash the boat, and the disciples, though seasoned fishermen fear for their lives. In desperation, they awaken the still sleeping Jesus. “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” It’s not a question; it is an accusation. How quickly all of the subtle variation disappears when the sky darkens and the waves swell. “Don’t you care that we are drowning?” Where are you? Why won’t you save us? How much longer? Why have you forsaken us? (v.38b)
There are other variations of chaos in the Bible Scriptures. In Genesis, God creates and hovers over chaos (an earth without form, void, watery, and dark) before God creates order. When speaking with Nicodemus, Jesus draws our attention to the Holy Spirit liken to the wild wind, blowing whenever she wills and beyond human control (John 3:8).
Throughout his ministry, Jesus disrupted established hierarchies and traditions, challenging the comfort of the familiar, Jesus’ entire ministry on earth is steeped in the chaos of upended hierarchies as in rocked boats.
The disciples struggle with faith shows that even those closest to Jesus–those who saw miracles and heard his words–found it hard to be unwavering in their trust. Their experience mirrors our own. Our faith may falter, just as theirs did. Yet, just as Jesus calmed the storm for his disciples, he can bring peace to the trials of our daily lives: illness, grief, loss, mental health struggles, economic uncertainty, educational challenges, housing needs, and even political turmoil.
Known this: the Lord never promised we will never see a storm in life. In fact, he warned us to expect trouble in this world (John 16:33). Instead, Jesus promised he would be with us in the storm. In the heart of our storms, he is with us, hears us and is ready to bring calm and comfort. Faith in Christ is always well placed. With a single word, Faith in Christ is always well placed. With a single word, Jesus stilled the stormy sea–“Peace Be Still!” If he can calm the waves, he can also bring peace to the storms within our lives.
True calm stems from an inner stillness, self-control, and deep trust in God rather than external circumstances or a lack of words or trouble. Cultivating peace through prayer supports our spiritual growth, nurturing humility and wisdom. As our connection with the Holy Spirit deepens, we are transformed, gain tranquility and resilience, free from anxiety and panic. Our peace and stillness do not mean passivity or indifference, but our willingness for renewal in transformative strength and reliance on faith, enabling us to navigate challenges with grace. Amen.
Rev. Carole, Assistant Pastor
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