When the storms of life rage, both externally and within our hearts, it is natural to imagine God has abandoned us. This feeling of abandonment is not new. The apostles faced a mighty storm on the Sea of Galilee, their boat tossed by relentless waves, and their hearts gripped by terror (Mark 4:35–41). In their panic, they forgot the ever-present wisdom of God, who is always near to those who trust in Him.

Amid the chaos, desperate and afraid, they cried out to Jesus, who had been asleep in the stern: “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” Jesus, with a voice that calms both seas and souls, rebuked the wind and the waves. Instantly, a great calm settled over the water. Turning to His disciples, He gently chided them for their lack of faith. In an instant, their overwhelming fear was transformed into awe and worship. They realized that Jesus had power over nature, power over their fears, and power over any problem they could ever face.

In our own lives, we encounter storms just as fierce, with trials and hurts that threaten to overwhelm us. These can take many forms—personal struggles, fears, doubts, or external crises. The world is fraught with peril and uncertainty, and it can break one. To navigate these treacherous waters, we must journey with courage and faith, taking up our cross and following Christ, knowing that He is closer than we think, as near as the blood coursing through our veins.

At times, life may seem like a fragile raft, battered by the raging seas of adversity. We may find ourselves desperately trying to hang on. In those moments, we must remember to call upon the Lord, just as the disciples did. He who calmed the storm on the Sea of Galilee can also bring calm to our troubled hearts.

In the coastal villages of modern-day Brittany, France, fishermen offer a quiet prayer before venturing out into the vast ocean: “Dear God, be good to me. The sea is so wide, and my boat is so small.” These Breton fishermen have learned to lean on the Lord before setting sail, trusting in His protection and guidance.

We, too, need to lean on the Lord as we navigate life’s murky and dangerous waters. Jesus demonstrated His power over nature, fear, and every conceivable problem. By placing our trust in Him, we acknowledge His control over our lives. With Jesus at the helm, we have nothing to fear. His power is  greater than any storm we may face. Let us place our trust in Him, knowing that He is the master of the storm and the bearer of calm.

How can we incorporate the practice of turning to the Lord in our daily lives, especially in moments of fear and anxiety? We can take meaningful steps to develop this habit:

  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness by taking moments throughout the day to pause and acknowledge the Lord’s presence. Meditate on His promises and let His calming presence fill your heart, especially during stressful times.

And so, in times of trouble, remember to call upon the Lord. Just as He calmed the storm for His disciples, He can calm the storms in your life. Through faith, we find strength. Through hope, we find courage to persevere. Through love, we find peace and calm. The Lord is in control, and with Him, we can stay calm and navigate any storm that comes our way.

—Fr. Hugh Duffy, Ph.D.