Freaking Out

“When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:39-40 NLT)

Here is my version of this story:

I am facing some challenges. The circumstances are stormy and unpredictable. Life seems like a boat that is about to capsize any moment. I am agitated, and Jesus seems to be asleep at the stern. I call out for help. He seems unconcerned that I am about to drown.

When he finally wakes up, He responds with the following question: Why are you freaking out? Don’t you trust ME? Do you not have confidence in ME?

My response: That is a totally unfair question! I have faith in You, Jesus--BUT, maybe you could respond a bit quicker? I do have confidence in Your abilities, but sometimes I’m not so sure of Your plans. Plus, I don’t trust humanity. You gave us ‘free will’--which leaves a lot of room for everyone to mess up.

Then, I realize that Jesus can influence nature--both external and internal. If He can alter the wind, rain, and the waves--He can also change individuals. He is the Redeemer--and no person or situation is unredeemable. Thus, I need to quit freaking out. Instead, I have to remain confident in Jesus. Even if my life is overturned, God can use that for His purposes.  And I have to learn to be okay with that.