Day Nine
Scripture: Mark 4:35-41
35 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, ‘Let us go across to the other side.’ 36 And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. 37 A great gale arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, ‘Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?’ 39 He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. 40 He said to them, ‘Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?’ 41 And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, ‘Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?’
Observation:
“Peace! Be still!”
It’s a blessing that we have the Cornerstone Learning Foundation, a Chinese language school, renting our facilities for a preschool and afterschool program. Throughout the day, everywhere is filled with the delightful sounds of children's laughter and, occasionally, the challenges of managing their tantrums. Yet, if I’m completely honest, there are times when I long for a quieter, more tranquil environment. I often feel that I would be more productive in my office if there were less noise surrounding me.
But upon reflection, I question whether complete silence is truly what I desire. Personally, I prefer white noise rather than absolute quietness. I thrive in the company of others, finding inspiration and energy in their presence. Watching the children playfully explore the church, even though they speak to me in Mandarin I don’t understand, fills me with joy. Their innocence and enthusiasm are truly heartwarming.
So I realize that it’s not the external noise that disturbs me; rather, it’s the cacophony within my own mind that hinders my focus as a pastor. I look into my heart. I see the anxieties about tomorrow swirling, the fear of letting others down waving, and the constant pressure to please everyone blowing like heavy wind.
May I listen to Jesus who says, "Peace! Be Still!” I’m with him on the boat.
Application:
Do you see “a great gale and huge waves” in you or around you? What are those?
What does that mean for you that Jesus is on the boat with you?
Prayer / Reflection:
Song of Reflection: Still