While the chaos of a storm threatened the disciples, Jesus slept soundly on a cushion. The disciples were just starting to get to know Jesus, and they wanted him to help. They may have thought he could help with a bucket, but they did not expect him to quiet the overwhelming wind and waves.
With a strong command Jesus overcame the death-threatening storm, rendering the tempest “completely calm.” This certainly relieved the disciples, but it also stunned them into trying to figure out who Jesus was.
Their vital question, “Who is this?” is also ours. We may have expectations for what we’d like Jesus to do and to be, but isn’t it better that we listen to what Jesus says and watch what he does in order to learn about him?
The sea and the wind are uncontrollable forces for us, but not for Jesus. And like Noah and his family (Genesis 6-9), the disciples survive the deadly water by the hand of God.
Do we realize how many aspects of life are beyond our control? Wouldn’t we like Jesus to help us deal with them? He is actually in complete control over them, and that could either scare us or comfort us.
The more we get to know Jesus, the more his authority over all things should bring us comfort, because we also know that he loves us.
Dear God, I am learning just how amazing Jesus’ authority in this world is. May I learn more and more about Jesus’ authority over all things, and how he can and does save me. Amen.
About the author — Douglas MacLeod
Rev. Douglas MacLeod is a church pastor in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He has served as a pastor for over 36 years with five congregations in Michigan and Iowa. He and Cathy, his wife of 40+ years, are grateful for their three children and four grandchildren.
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