Rev Michael Anokye: LENT – 08/03/2024
BE STILL
Prayer: Dear Lord, I trust that You will always be with me in times of worry and trouble. Please guide me to follow Your ways and have faith in You. When I feel tired and frustrated, help me to experience the joy that comes from You.
Psalm 1:3 -tells us that a tree planted by streams of water bears fruit in season, and its leaves do not wither. Let us strive to be like this tree and prosper in everything we do. Amen.
Read Psalm 1 – HERE
Reading: Mark 4: 35-41 – Jesus and his disciples were in a boat when a violent storm arose and nearly capsized the boat. The disciples woke Jesus up, asking if he cared that they were about to drown. Jesus commanded the wind and waves to be still, and they immediately stopped. He then asked his disciples why they lacked faith in him. They were amazed at his power over nature.
Read Mark 4- HERE
Reflection:
What do we do when it feels like God is sleeping and does not care? As we progress through the Lenten season, we will focus on what faith looks like during “Stormy” Time. The disciples are in the midst of a tremendous storm, but Jesus is fast asleep inside the boat. In their dread, they awaken Jesus, asking the question many of us may ask throughout life’s storms: Jesus, don’t you care about me? How we handle faith during difficult circumstances varies, but we are reminded that Jesus is with us. God (Emmanuel) is present in the midst of the storms with us. Therefore, do not be afraid, even if the earth ignores your dreams and the mountains tremble with their surge. Believe that God is with you, and you will not fail. God will help you to be still, and all the storms will cease. You will smile at the storm if Jesus is in your boat.
Let us pray: God, Lord of Creation, please remind us of your constant presence. Remind us that You are always with us, through the most demanding challenges, difficulties, and temptations. Like the waves on the sea and the apostles, help us be still and remember that you are God, and Your presence is always with us. Amen.
Action:
How do you handle complex relationships with your family?
How do you deal with stressful situations?
What will you do in the face of life’s challenges and storms?