Focal passage: Mark 4:35-41
Many people will remember the year 2017 as one characterized by an abnormal amount of natural disasters. Hurricanes Maria, Irma and Harvey devastated the Caribbean and United States. Flooding in Bangladesh and Sierra Leone, and the enormous mudslide in Colombia affected hundreds of lives. Earthquakes, wildfires – the list goes on.
One of the most common questions I’ve heard in the face of so many disasters is, “Where is God?” There were times when I was the one asking that question.
The disciples felt this way in Mark 4:35-41, when a large storm threatened their safety. After teaching through many parables, Jesus boarded a boat with His disciples to cross the Sea of Galilee. He made His way to the stern, laid down and slept.
Suddenly a large storm came over the sea, rocking the boat as waves overtook it, creating panic among the disciples. They found Jesus asleep, woke Him up and panicked some more, asking, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” (Mark 4:38).
Jesus stood up and proved to be more powerful than the forces of nature by calling the wind and the sea into submission.
Following Jesus does not guarantee us a life free of storms. Even the disciples, who spent three years personally walking with Jesus, experienced storms. However, Jesus never left the disciples and even challenged their faith by asking, “Why are you so fearful? Why is it that you have no faith?” (Mark 4:40).
Our Savior proves to be present, even in the most overwhelming circumstances.
Our entire life’s journey is one that heavily depends on trusting God. When it seems that God is sleeping through circumstances and I’m tempted to question if He cares, He leads me back to the foot of the cross. Our God, who is powerful and loving enough to save souls, is the same God that rules over all of creation and extends the invitation to trust Him no matter what comes our way.