Introduction
Theologians and hymn writers often use the term ‘storm’ to describe the trials Christians face in life. Sometimes these troubles come out of nowhere and catch us unawares, leaving us buffeted and bruised. Some scholars suggest that the storm mentioned in today’s scripture reading was of that variety – one minute all was calm, the next it was mayhem.
Then there are times when we have an inclination that a storm is coming – but even that does not always help us cope with the tempest. We have only to consider Peter, who was warned about his imminent trial during the last supper. Yet, in Peter’s situation, forewarned was not forearmed and he failed the testing miserably. Today’s scripture readings reveal the disciples’ crisis of faith during a time of testing, but they also show a Saviour who is willing to come alongside us during our trials.
Context
Markets suffer as Greece teeters on the edge of a ‘Grexit’.
The British Prime minister rules out 5 May for the EU referendum vote.
Jeb Bush announces plans to run for the White House.
Fathers are still not pulling their weight at home.
Reflection
European economist and politicians continue to hold their collective breaths over the discussions involving Greece, to strike a deal to secure the final tranche of its bailout. Any failure could lead to the country defaulting on its loans and leaving the single currency, which some are calling the ‘Grexit’. The economists are unsure of the possible fallout of the Grexit on the Eurozone; some have argued that the damage would be minimal, given Greece’s nominal economic importance. Others have used terms such as ‘contagion’ to describe the devastating financial affect this would have on the region. Politicians and their advisers are wisely looking to put contingencies in place to limit any possible damage. However, the reality is that although they are anticipating trouble, they are not sure whether their remedial measures are sufficient – time alone will tell.
In today’s reading, the scriptures do not mention whether Jesus and his disciples were expecting any weather-related trouble when they stepped into that boat. What we do know is that the Sea of Galilee was known for its sudden and furious storms, which could easily catch a sailor or fisherman unawares. Mark’s Gospel tells us that the unexpected storm became furious and soon made the disciples fearful for their lives.
The disciples’ experience is not unfamiliar; life does not always tell us when the storms are coming our way. Equally, as experienced by that paragon of patience, Job, storms can befall us at a time when everything appears to be going swimmingly. The challenge is how we respond to these trials. Mark’s gospel reveals that the disciples’ faith was definitely shaken by the storm; causing them to doubt whether Jesus, who was present at the time, had the capacity to save them from their predicament.
While it is easy to criticise the disciples for their lack of faith, one can argue that they had the nous to turn to Jesus when trouble struck; they recognised that Jesus was the answer to their problem. This in contrast to the seafarers in two other famous biblical tempests - Jonah’s voyage to Tarshish (Jonah 1.1-17) and the shipwreck involving Paul (Acts 27.13- 44), who sought to save themselves by lightening the load or throwing down the anchor, respectively.
Many Christians have a penchant for self-sufficiency, which manifests itself in relying on one’s own resources, or looking to others, when facing life’s storms. Like the disciples, we need to turn to Jesus as our anchor in times of trouble. Moreover, on what is (in the UK) Father’s Day, let us remember that our heavenly Father is always with us, irrespective of the ‘weather’.
Prayer
Whatever our relationship with our earthly or biological father, Father’s Day should be an opportunity to focus on a heavenly Father in whom we can trust. Unlike fathers the world over who experience the storm-shaken doubts and fears of the disciples, our God is a ‘rock’ and an anchor who can never fail.
Heavenly Father,
we thank you for fathers and mothers
and the sacrifices they make for their families.
Help us to use today – and all such anniversaries – to recognize their efforts,
and to acknowledge your parenthood and loving care for us.
In Jesus we see one who had a loving relationship with his father,
and who also experienced stormy times.
Help us to draw inspiration from these bonds
to take us through the squalls to places where we are safe
and able to worship you.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Questions
- When the storms of life confront us, how soon do we turn to the Lord?
- What would have happened had the disciples not awakened Jesus during the storm?
Action
While we are always encouraged to turn to the Lord when life’s storms hit us, this does not mean that Christians should not seek also to support those who are going through a tough time, both with prayer and through forms of practical support. How does your church/congregation support those who are known to be struggling? Does it have ministries or a system to which people can turn in times of need? If not, today may be an opportunity to explore what help can be put in place for those in need.
Young People
Look through a magazine, newspaper or website advertising Father’s Day gifts, and explore whether the suggested presents promote the ‘virtues of being a father’. What messages do you think these gifts convey about fathers?
Richard Reddie is a writer and researcher. His most recent book, “Martin Luther King Jr: History Maker” is published by Lion Hudson. He is a warden at St James Church (CofE) West Streatham, London.
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