Prayer:
O Jesus, calm the storms in my own life.
Imagination:
Picture the fearful disciples in the boat, while Jesus calms the sea.
Context:
Mark begins a series of 5 stories showing Jesus’ power. In this first calming of the sea (Jesus does it a second time in 6:45-52), Jesus is in the boat. The text highlights the disciples waking him up (before the miracle) and their awe at his power (after the miracle).
Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)
When evening came, Jesus said, “Let us go to the other side.” Jesus dispersed the crowd and they took him in their boat. There were also other boats. A storm blew up and the waves beat against the boat which filled up with water.
Jesus was in the rear part, asleep on a pillow. They woke him up and said, “Master, are you not concerned that we could die?” Getting up, he rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace, be still.” The wind ceased and the sea became calm.
Jesus said to them. “Why are you fearful? Are you lacking in faith?” They were very much afraid and said to one another, “Who is this whom even the wind and the sea obey?”
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder those that attract you.)
- There were many boats but Jesus travels in the boat with his disciples. He wants them to witness his power.
- The wind and the sea are symbols of demonic chaos that can destroy our desire to be good disciples.
- The disciples have faith. They wake Jesus up, wanting the storm to be ended.
- However, if they had greater faith, they would have left him sleeping.
- Faith believes in Jesus, whether he is awake or asleep.
- He rebukes the wind and the sea, just as he rebuked the devils in his exorcisms.
- As always, peace overcomes the chaos.
- The apostles know that only God can tame the wind and sea. So, they ask, “Who is this Jesus?”
Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- O Jesus, travel in my boat. You are always welcome.
- When chaos and evil surround me, You alone are my safeguard.
- When I awaken you, you always help me.
- Let me imitate the Little Flower, who allowed you to sleep even when the storms raged.
- You can sleep, Jesus and still care for me.
- You are Lord. You are God. You are Saviour. You are Redeemer. You are powerful. I am weak.
Resolutions: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
+ I will never begin a task without having Jesus in my boat.
+ I will always believe that his power can do all things.