Bible Reading: Matthew 8:23-27

Then [Jesus] got into the boat and his disciples followed him. Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, ‘Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!’

He replied, ‘You of little faith, why are you so afraid?’ Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.

The men were amazed and asked, ‘What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!’

Reflection

If ever we are tempted to get too cosy and comfortable in our Christian lives, this story reminds us of the power that Jesus wields over all creation.

Jesus is a calming presence in this Bible story, but at other times he can be uncomfortable to be around. He gets angry with those who misuse God’s Temple (John 2); he doesn’t mince his words with the Pharisees (Matthew 23), and he warns his followers that life will not be easy for them (Luke 9:57-62).

In CS Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Lucy nervously asks if Aslan, the lion, is safe. ‘Safe?’ said Mr. Beaver. ‘… Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.’

Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, as you work in my life today, move me out of my comfort zones; disrupt me where I have become too rigid and unbending; revitalise my daily rhythms; and lift me closer to you. Amen. 

JH