The Storm Calmed

Gospel Mk 4:35-41 and Lk 8:22-25

Storm on the sea

Jesus got into the boat, and his disciples followed him. Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying:

--"Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!"

He replied:

--"You of little faith, why are you so afraid?"

Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked:

--"What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!"

QUESTIONS AND POINTS FOR REFLECTION

1.- Jesus' Presence in the "Storm": The disciples are terrified because the waves cover the boat while Jesus sleeps. In your life (studies, family, friendships), what are the "storms" that make you feel fear or insecurity? Do you ever feel that God "sleeps" in the face of your problems?
2.- Fear vs. Faith: Jesus asks them a direct question: "Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?". Fear is the opposite of faith. How do you think the gift of Fortitude that you will receive in Confirmation can help you replace fear with trust in Christ?
3.- The Lesson of the Boat: The boat has always been interpreted as a symbol of the Church. Although there are difficulties and it seems like it might sink, Jesus is inside. Why is it important to live faith within the "boat" (the community, the parish) and not alone, especially when things go wrong?
4.- Who is this? (The identity of Jesus): The disciples are marveling and ask: "Who is this, that even the wind and sea obey him?". After all this time in catechism, who is Jesus for you? Is He just a historical figure or someone who truly has the power to bring peace to your life?
5.- Jesus' Command: "Quiet! Be still!": With a single word, Jesus dominates the chaos. In a world with so much noise, arguments, and tension, how can you be an instrument of peace? In what way does your confirmation commit you to bringing God's "calm" to places where there is conflict?