Why so afraid?

Today's Readings: OT - Job 35 / NT - Mark 4:21-41

"And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?”  - Mark 4:39-40

Over the years we have owned four dogs. Each one has been unique in their own right. They have been funny in some ways, pushy in other ways and anxious toward certain sounds or events. As for their fears, it never mattered how many times we would assure them that everything was alright, they were still frightened. Apparently, they had little faith in what we said.

Is it not amazing that the wind and sea responded so quickly at the words of our Lord? Jesus spoke and "the wind ceased, and there was a great calm". Yet, the disciples were completely unable to experience the same peaceful calm in their hearts. This is far too often the case; the words of Jesus were just not enough to calm their nerves. Apparently they had little faith in what He said.

Is this your story as well my friend? Can you recall numerous verses that tell of God's great power and faithful care of His children? And yet, in the face of stormy situations do you find that you are still often afraid? Is it true that no matter how much you know, you just can't settle down and be at peace? Well, maybe you need a little more faith in the One who "makes the clouds his chariot"... and "rides the wings of the wind" (Psalm 104:3). You need to give your fear to the One who says "Peace! Be still" and find your own "great calm".

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Job 36:1-21 / NT - Mark 5:1-20