MARK 4:35–41, THE CALMING OF A STORM AT SEA
FAITH IN THE MIDST OF FEAR AND THE DIVINE AUTHORITY OF JESUS
Introduction
After a long day of teaching the crowds in parables by the Sea of Galilee, Jesus invites his disciples to cross to the other side. This simple request becomes an occasion of revelation when a violent storm threatens their lives. In the midst of fear and chaos, Jesus reveals his divine authority over creation and challenges his disciples to grow from fear to faith. This passage invites believers to trust Christ amid life’s storms and recognize his presence even when he seems silent.
Bible passage (Mark 4:35–41)
On that day, as evening drew on, he said to them, “Let us cross to the other side.” Leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat just as he was. And other boats were with him. A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was already filling up. Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” They were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?”
Background
This episode follows a series of parables about the Kingdom of God. Jesus now moves from teaching by words to teaching through action. The Sea of Galilee, known for sudden and violent storms, becomes the setting where Jesus reveals not only his care for his disciples but also his divine identity.
Opening life connection
Every human life encounters storms—unexpected illness, family struggles, financial hardship, fear of the future, or spiritual dryness. Often, like the disciples, we feel overwhelmed and wonder whether God truly cares when he seems silent.
Verse-by-verse / phrase-by-phrase reflection
“Let us cross to the other side”
Jesus initiates the journey. Obedience to his call does not exempt disciples from trials.
“Leaving the crowd”
The disciples move away from public ministry into deeper formation through lived experience.
“A violent squall came up”
Storms arise suddenly and unexpectedly, even when following Jesus.
“Jesus was in the stern, asleep”
His sleep reveals both his true humanity and his complete trust in the Father.
“Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?”
Fear distorts faith. The disciples question Jesus’ concern rather than his power.
“He rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘Quiet! Be still!’”
Jesus speaks with divine authority. In Scripture, only God commands the forces of nature.
“There was great calm”
Divine peace replaces chaos. God’s power restores order where fear reigns.
“Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”
Jesus challenges the disciples to move beyond fear to trusting faith.
“Who then is this?”
Awe replaces fear. The disciples begin to recognize Jesus’ divine identity.
Jewish historical and religious context
In the Old Testament, control over the sea is attributed only to God. “The Lord rules the raging of the sea; when its waves surge, he stills them” (Psalm 89:9). By calming the storm, Jesus reveals himself as sharing God’s authority.
Catholic tradition and teaching
The Church sees the boat as a symbol of the Church journeying through history amid trials. Christ remains present, even when he seems silent, guiding and protecting his people.
Historical or saintly illustration
Saint Teresa of Ávila once prayed during severe trials, “Let nothing disturb you.” Her deep trust in Christ sustained her amid internal and external storms.
Application to Christian life today
Faith is not the absence of storms but trust in Christ during them. Believers are called to awaken Jesus through prayer rather than surrender to fear.
Eucharistic connection
In the Eucharist, Christ is truly present with us in our fragile vessel. Receiving him strengthens our faith and calms our inner storms.
Messages / Call to conversion
-
Following Jesus does not guarantee a storm-free life.
-
Fear grows when faith weakens.
-
Christ is present even when he seems silent.
-
Trust in Jesus brings peace amid chaos.
-
Grow from fear to awe-filled faith.
Outline for preachers
• Context of the journey across the sea
• Storm as a symbol of life’s trials
• Jesus’ humanity and divine authority
• Fear versus faith
• Old Testament background of God’s power over the sea
• The Church as the boat in the storm
• Eucharist as Christ’s abiding presence
• Call to deeper trust in Jesus
