Although Jesus' apostles were ignorant about many things, several were experts in fishing. They had spent their lives on the Lake of Galilee and knew well the weather conditions of this lake. As experienced fishermen, they knew when they were in imminent danger of drowning (see Mk 4:38). But, when they were in this danger, Jesus did nothing to save them; instead, He was sleeping (Mk 4:38). This was indeed a miracle. You would have to be God to sleep through such a storm. In fact, sleeping in the storm may have been a greater miracle than stopping the storm. It is easier to make still the wind and sea than to quiet our hearts (see Ps 131:2), especially when we are in the most disturbing circumstances.

You may be going through many storms in your life — even life-threatening hurricanes. You have probably asked the Lord to stop the storms. O, you of little faith! (Mk 4:40) Why not ask the Lord for a greater miracle — for the peaceful sleep of faith in the future storms of your life! We do not mean the sleep of depression and escape but the sleep of confidence and peace. Let's not be upset but consoled by Jesus sleeping through the storm. Let it storm! Let it storm! Let us sleep in Christ — now and forever.

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert J. Buschmiller, June 11, 1998

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 20, 1998