THURSDAY- 13^TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME –B

Gospel: Matthew 8:23-27: He stood up and rebuked the winds and the sea; and all was calm again.

I Reading: Amos 3:1-8. 4: 11-12: The Lord speaks: who can refuse to prophesy?

Jesus Calms a Storm: Conquering Fear and Nature, 8:23-27

What was the purpose of this experience? Why was a storm allowed to arise on the sea with Christ in the boat? The answer is given in v.27. “What kind of man is this?” He proved again that he is the Messiah! Calming the storm did three things.

1.     It demonstrated who He is: The Sovereign Lord who has all power- even power over nature.

2.     It strengthened the belief of his followers: belief in him as the Messiah and in his personal care as their Savior.

3.     It gave to all generations a picture of his care and power- his care and power to deliver through all the storms of life (trials and fearful experiences).

Jesus demonstrated his wonderful care and power to deliver believers through the storms of life.

1.     A basic fact: True disciples follow him no matter what (v.23)

2.     A fearful experiences: A great storm arose (v.24)

3.     A terrifying discovery: Man is not able to handle the situation (v.24)

4.     A desperate approach: Lord, awake-save us (v.25)

5.     A challenging question (v.26)

a.     Why are you so afraid?

b.    Why so little faith?

6.     A strong, powerful deliverance: A great calm (v.26)

7.     A marvellous purpose (v.27)

a.     To prove who He is?

b.    To strengthen faith

c.      To demonstrate His care for all

Thought: Jesus Christ can calm any storm of life for us so let us believe in His power and care.

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