Gospel lesson of the week
The Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
Mark 4:35-41
Jesus’ calming of the storm on the sea reveals his power over evil, since the sea represents evil and chaos. The boat on the sea is a symbol of the church and invites us to trust God amid life’s turbulence.
35When evening had come, Jesus said to the disciples, “Let us go across to the other side.” 36And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. 37A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. 38But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. 40He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” 41And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”
Gospel Reflection Questions
- How has your faith “calmed storms” in your life?
- Think of your greatest fear – say a prayer for God to lift that fear from you.
- When have you experienced the power of God in your life?
Prayer
O God of creation, eternal majesty, you preside over land and sea, sunshine and storm. By your strength pilot us, by your power preserve us, by your wisdom instruct us, and by your hand protect us, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Mt. Olive's online Bible Study is a weekly opportunity to reflect on
the coming weekend's Gospel text before worship. We encourage you
to read the text, reflect on the questions with others.
< SUBSCRIBE >
Get our weekly Bible study newsletter emailed to you!