Staying Calm In Chaos

NASA reports that approximately 80 tropical storms develop globally each year. Out of these, 17 reach typhoon strength in the Northwestern Pacific, while around 6 become hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean. The stormiest waters in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica experience cyclone-like elements, including heavy winds throughout the year, due to uninterrupted air currents over open water.  

Violent storms are not limited to large bodies of water such as oceans. Although smaller bodies of water like lakes and inland seas may not be big enough to generate massive weather systems that produce hurricanes or typhoons, their unique geographical positions, surrounding terrain, and water depth can trigger sudden and severe localized storms. These storms can form much more quickly, often providing much less warning for those needing to seek safety.

For example, the Sea of Galilee is infamously known for its sudden storms, primarily due to its "wind tunnel" effect. Located approximately 680 feet below sea level, the air directly above the water becomes trapped and heated. Surrounding this body of water are steep hills and mountains that rise to about 2,500 feet.

These two factors create a collision of winds, which causes the hot, humid air to funnel through the valleys, ultimately resulting in waves that can reach heights of 10 feet or more!
The Gospels recount two sudden storms on the Sea of Galilee that plunged the disciples into chaos. Today, we will examine the first storm and discuss the second one tomorrow.
Mark 4:35-41 records the first storm when it says, "On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, 'Let us go across to the other side.' 36 And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, 'Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?' 39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, 'Peace! Be still!' And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 He said to them, 'Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?' 41 And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, 'Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?' "

Mark emphasized that this was no ordinary storm; it was life-threatening! The waves were so severe that they were overtaking the boat. Additionally, we know that at least four of the disciples—Peter, Andrew, James, and John—were experienced fishermen. Having faced many storms on that body of water, their fear for their lives underscores the seriousness of this particular storm.

Perhaps you are in a storm right now. It could be medical, emotional, relational, or financially related. But, like the disciples, fear has taken over, and the outcome appears to be in doubt.

As a result of this storm, you are experiencing a tsunami of stress! The only way to stop this monsoon of madness is to trust God because faith in the power of Christ calms the rough waters and windy conditions of life. Thus, take notice of Jesus' words in verse 39 when He said to the storm, "Peace! Be Still!"

Remember that the disciples were safe before Jesus spoke those words because He is the source of peace. True peace is not the absence of the storm but the presence of Jesus' peace in the storm. The same holds for your adversity. Even if the conditions are unrelenting, believe that Jesus will take you to the "other side” and you can stay calm in the chaos (Mark 4:35.)