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.
Matthew 8:26 NIV
Jesus and his disciples were in a small boat crossing the Sea of Galilee when a sudden storm hit the lake, and waves began to crash over the boat. Many of the disciples were seasoned fishermen who had grown up on this lake and made their living fishing its waters. They knew from experience that they were in trouble and were afraid.
In contrast to the terrified disciples was Jesus, sleeping through the storm. Eventually, the disciples frantically woke him up, calling on him to save them. Jesus chastened them for their fear and lack of faith. And then, to their amazement, he calmed the storm.
I find it hard to fault the disciples in this situation. I would have been with them, fearful of the situation and calling out for his help. And, despite Jesus’ chastening, I believe that calling out for his help is appropriate. We may face many storms in our lives that threaten to overwhelm us. But we need not fear. We can trust that the one who calmed this storm will see us through any storm we face. He might calm the storm. Or we might suffer loss. Even our lives. But he will bring his people safely through every storm and into his presence. Do not be afraid. Trust the one who holds you in the palm of his hand.
