“And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?” (Mark 4:37,38)
Life has its storms. To those who have taken off on their journey without Jesus, there is only fear when the wind and waves threaten. Even to those who believe, there are times when the Master seems asleep, unconcerned. But He is always in control. He is Lord of heaven and earth. “Even the wind and the sea obey Him.”
He knows why those without Him are without hope in this world; but He questions the fear of those who are His: “And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?” (Mark 4:40) When men’s hearts are failing them for fear as they look upon the things transpiring on the earth, Jesus would have His sheep look up. Their redemption draws near. He has saved; He does save; and He will save those who put their trust in Him.
In every day, chaotic or calm, the Shepherd is with His sheep. Though they walk through the valley of the shadow of death they are not to fear any evil. He is with them. His rod and His staff comforts them. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow them all the days of their life. And a day of only sunshine is on the horizon for them.
Until then, in the midst of every storm, there is Jesus. But when He returns, will He find faith on the earth? “Fear not” is His command. “I am with you” is His promise.