Read Mark 4:35-41 Romans 8:38-39 (NRSV)

Neither death, nor life...nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

In todays reading, the disciples were overcome by fear and woke Jesus from a sound sleep. They cried out and questioned his care for them. But Jesus calmed the wind and waves with the command, Peace! Be still! Jesus then challenged the disciples, Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?

Similarly, the storms of life assault us with little or no warning. Winds of change scream and howl. We are tossed up on the shore like driftwood, where we find ourselves lying among the wreckage of serious health problems, ruptured family relationships or broken dreams.

When we face hard times, grief and pain can dominate our days and fear may visit us in the middle of the night. Like the disciples, we cry out, Lord, do you not care that we are perishing? Jesus may not instantly command these winds and waves, Be still! But he does say to us, Peace! He speaks with loving-kindness to comfort and strengthen us.

Scripture reminds us that our Lord will never leave us or forsake us. We are encouraged to cast all our cares, concerns, hurts and fears, and pain on God because God cares for us. (See 1 Peter 5:7.)

PrayerThank you Lord, for hearing our prayers and giving us your peace in the stormy times of our lives. Amen.

Thought for the DayWhen my life seems to be falling apart, Jesus can give me peace.

Patricia Wilgis-Patton (Texas)

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