And waking up, he rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Be silent! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. Mark 4:39 (NRSVue)
The verse for today comes from the familiar account of Jesus calming the seas. No doubt, you have heard Mark 4:25-41 interpreted many ways. Two sermons I remember focused on the need to rest—that even the human Jesus required rest—and the divine Jesus’ authority to command the elements. These were both excellent messages; I only wish I could recall the details of each. However, a different message struck me in re-reading today's text: Jesus’ command to “Be silent! Be still!”
In verse 38, the panicked disciples are confident that the boat is about to sink in the great storm, so they wake Jesus with the question, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?”
It is worth noting that four of the disciples were fishermen by trade: Peter, Andrew, James, and John. These men, along with the others, were likely accustomed to traveling by boat on the Sea of Galilee. The Sea of Galilee was a central hub for regional transportation and trade during the first century. Travel by ship was not only essential for the fishing industry but also a standard mode of transportation for moving goods and people across the lake. This cultural context suggests that even those disciples who were not fishermen would still have been familiar with sailing practices. While the text says the storm arose suddenly, we don't know if they had noticed the signs of the storm before getting in the boat and ignored them or, knowing Jesus was with them, assumed it would be smooth sailing.
We all know even when Jesus is with us, we are not assured of calm waters. What we are guaranteed is His presence with us through every storm. When we grow fearful and anxious, Jesus speaks the exact words He said to the storm and His disciples: "Be silent! Be still!" In modern parlance, He tells us, "I've got your back!"
Jesus’ response in verse 40, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” challenges us to reflect on our trust in Him. It reminds us that our faith should rest in His unwavering presence and power, even amid turmoil. In life's turbulence, we can find peace and assurance in Jesus' words. He commands the chaos in our lives to be still and offers us His steadfast presence and calm. We may not be spared from life's storms, but we are never alone. Jesus' assurance, "Be silent! Be still," reminds us that He is in control and will see us through every trial.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your constant presence in our lives. Even when we face the storms of life, we know we are not alone. Help us to hear Your command to be still and to trust in Your steadfast love and care. When we are fearful and anxious, remind us that You have our back and are in control. Grant us the peace that surpasses all understanding. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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