Lessons at Sea

By the time of the events in Mark 4, the disciples had already been with Jesus for a while. How much they must have learned at the foot of the Master.

Read Mark 4:36-41. What is so revealing about their words to Him in verse 38? How often do we find ourselves having a similar response in frightful times?

I sometimes find myself wondering if Jesus really cares what happens to me when things are not going according to “my” plans. However; as my plans unravel and I find myself in a complete mess, Jesus is always there to pick up the broken pieces and love me back together again. Such was the case with the disciples in the boat. (Alastair)

It is so easy for us to do the same thing, to wonder, when tragedy and problems strike, if God cares at all. The irony, of course, is that Jesus was right there the whole time. He was the one who first told them to take the boat across to begin with. This storm did not take Him by surprise, and neither do our trials.

What significance (if any) can be found in the fact that the disciples, not the storm, woke Jesus?

Perhaps there is little significance to be found in the fact that the disciples woke Jesus. I am inclined to believe that they were simply demonstrating how sorely afraid they actually were. I am curious to see everyone’s comments regarding this question. (Alastair)

Notice the element of fear in the disciples all through the account. They feared the storm; and then, after the storm was calmed, they seemed to fear Jesus. The manifestation of such power was impressive, of course, but one would have thought by now that, after their time with Christ, they would have known that they had nothing to fear from Him. On the contrary, this power should have been a source of great hope and comfort to them, because by now they should have known the character of the One who possessed all that power. This account shows that these men still had a lot to learn about what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

When was the last time you wondered if the Lord cared about you and your situation, whatever it was? What lessons did you learn from that trial that you could use next time you face a trial or tragedy?

Sometimes, I find myself watching the wealthy; they seem not to have a care in the world. Then I ask God, “Why do so many wick people prosper while I am left to struggle?” Then I am comforted by His promises and example. Jesus was not rich or afraid. I can never recall the bible saying that Jesus was ever “afraid.” Even in the Gethsemane, His perfect love for the Father cast out all the fear that tempted Him. My prayer is that our perfect love for Jesus will cast out all of our fears. (Alastair)