This episode just after Jesus has been teaching in parables to large crowds is, in its own right, a parable about discipleship. First, there is the invitation. “Let us go across to the other side” (vs. 35). There is what seems like a sudden, unexpected storm. There is chaos and fear, and the inevitable question, “Teacher, do you not care that we are dying here?” Jesus calms the storm and settles into a teaching moment. His lesson holds two words against each other: fear and faith.
The question is, will you live in a mindset of fear and chaos, feeling like you’ve been abandoned to your own devices to fight whatever assails you? Or will you trust in the promise that the kingdom of God of which Jesus speaks is already among us and that even, in the midst of difficulties, there is peace to be found?
In prayer, offer a fearful or chaotic situation to God and listen for the words, “Peace. Be still.”