He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” Mark 4 : 40 - 41
Bible reading : Mark 4 : 35 - 41
Thought of the week
In our Gospel reading Jesus is at the heart of a crisis. Amidst the storm, He is surrounded by human fears and cries. There is panic, confusion, even terror at what is to happen. Situations that may seem familiar to us at times. We all know the feelings of being overwhelmed, out of control. Yet a situation where Jesus remains sovereign, the source of calm, of peace. Who calls us to have faith.
Today is World refugee Day (20th June). It is a salient reminder that during the months of Pandemic there have still been those in the world who have lost their homes, their security, have had to flee warfare and poverty, even the effects of climate change. We also remember those who have taken to boats to seek a better life, and have entrusted their families, their children to others.
Jesus’ call to faith is a call to pray, to believe and to act in our world. Where there is poverty, disaster, bitterness we are called to show the love of Jesus and bring change in His name. The disciples own words could be leveled at us, “Do you not care…” Yet Jesus’ response is one of reassurance. To believe, and see even the fiercest storms of hatred, prejudice and crisis dissolve through prayer, through faith and a new beginning.
Rev Paul
This Thursday is the International Day of Prayer for the Emergency Services – 24th June. Please pray for our police, ambulance, paramedics and fire services :
Heavenly Father, thank You for the emergency services that You have placed here on earth.
We are thankful for their abilities, knowledge and expertise.
We ask that You continue to cover and bless them because at times, their jobs can be very challenging, risky and demanding.
So Father, we pray Psalm 121: 8 over them; “The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore”, Amen