The Sea of Galilee is the largest freshwater lake in Israel. It is 700 feet below sea level and can suddenly become transformed by violent winds blowing through the hill country, stirring up the waters causing deadly waves for fishermen.  It was a treacherous thing to the disciples because they were not practiced sea-faring people. They only went out to sea for the necessity of catching fish for food. 

 

On that evening when Jesus left the crowd and asked the disciples to go over to the other side of the Sea, I was surprised they would be so terrified of a storm    Then I compared translations and began reading descriptive words like fierce, severe, waves crashing, furious squall, hurricane proportions and I understood. I’ve experienced a fast approaching thunderstorm with darkening sky and increased wind during the summer, but I was on dry land and ran for home. I’ve experienced a few hurricanes blowing across our property, but I was on dry land and under the protection of our roof.  Why wouldn’t the disciples be struck by fear and panic?  

 

After their initial alarm, they remembered the presence of Jesus in their boat and they knew what to do; they pleaded with Him to preserve their lives! After all, He was the one who asked them to go to the other side.  They were in awe when He simply spoke and the sea became as smooth as glass. Their thoughts changed from fear of the natural elements to trust in the power of this Man who had command over the sea.  Who was in this boat with them?

 

This story is full of contrasts and I tried to paint this image depicting before and after Jesus spoke His miracle.  The sky has not yet lifted its darkness but the sea shines calmly like a mirror.  Isn’t that the same with me?  I can be in the middle of dark anxiety, stress and turmoil trying all my own solutions to save myself or I can remember Jesus, and be transformed into a place of stillness and peace.  Which would you choose?

 

He told the wind to pipe down and said to the sea, “Quiet! Settle down!” 

The wind ran out of breath; the sea became smooth as glass.* 

 

References:

*Mark 4.36-41 The Message

Luke 8:22-25 Amplified Bible

Matthew 8.23-26 Amplified Bible