When the author of Mark composed this story, I conclude that he did so to illustrate Jesus' power and maybe his disappointment over the disciples' lack of faith. I have a hard time believing that the message is to keep on smilin' when your life is in peril.
Surely God wants us to protect ourselves. Their being afraid led the disciples to awaken Jesus, whose command did calm the storm.
The disciples may have failed the test of their faith, but Jesus saved them anyway.
Amy, I so appreciate your line, ". . . but Jesus saved them anyway." I have been grateful so many times that, despite my failings and times of doubt, God remains constant and faithful.
Your comment reminds me of the hymn, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"--
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father.
There is no shadow of turning with Thee.
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not.
When the author of Mark composed this story, I conclude that he did so to illustrate Jesus' power and maybe his disappointment over the disciples' lack of faith. I have a hard time believing that the message is to keep on smilin' when your life is in peril.
Surely God wants us to protect ourselves. Their being afraid led the disciples to awaken Jesus, whose command did calm the storm.
The disciples may have failed the test of their faith, but Jesus saved them anyway.