The story of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee is familiar. You may have first heard it in Sunday School as a child. It’s a fascinating event recorded in each of the three synoptic Gospels. The disciples feared for their lives as a fierce storm hit Galilee and threatened to capsize their boat. But Jesus, with a command, said, “Peace, be still!” Mark 4:39 (KJV) says, and the storm calmed at once. The response of the Disciples is interesting. “What manner of man is this, that even the wind and sea obey him?” Mark 4:41 (KJV).
The wind and the sea obeyed Jesus, of course, because He is the Creator, their Lord and Master. How could they not obey Him? But dear ones, what about us? I’ve been dealing with some heart issues; a loved relative is struggling with addiction, and close friends’ marriage has been impacted by adultery. Then I listen to the news and hear reports of war and violence, another school shooting this week, a deeply divided nation, natural tragedies in many places. Storms! My boat may seem to be capsizing! What about you? Are there storms in your life? Are there things that you are dealing with that threaten to capsize your boat?
Well, we are called to “obey” the Lord too! He has promised to give us peace even in the midst of storms. As real as Jesus standing in that boat, rocking in the waves, buffeted by the wind, Jesus is with you today as you face your storms. And he speaks to your heart and to mine, “Peace, be still!” And the big question is, will we obey our Creator? Our Lord and Master?
Jesus said, “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. … Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:23-27 (NIV).
And the Apostle Paul writes to the Philippians, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of god, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV).
Brother or Sister, there is a promise of His peace for you, whatever you are facing today! And there is a command to peace that we are called to obey as followers of Jesus.
May you know His peace in whatever storm you may be in. And let us obey His call to peace as surely as the wind and waves on Galilee.
Larry M. Dentler – CBC Executive Board
