IF I AM SERVING GOD SHOULDN’T GOD MAKE MY LIFE EASIER, NOT HARDER?

Jesus speaks in parables to the assembled crowd, giving them an opportunity to decide how much spiritual truth they want to absorb. The disciples, wanting to learn more, ask Jesus to explain the meaning of the parables He has taught. As Jesus explains these ideas, He demonstrates that a person's spiritual knowledge is based on their willingness to pursue truth. After describing Jesus' teaching in some detail, the Gospel of Mark describes how Jesus calms a storm on the Sea of Galilee Adrift in a violent storm that threatens to swamp and capsize the boat, the disciples look to Jesus. The "cushion" Jesus is sleeping on may have been a sandbag used for ballast or an extra seat used for passengers. Either way, it wasn't designed for comfort. But Jesus is exhausted. His short ministry has been characterized by crowds of people (Mark 3:7–10; 4:1–2), little chance to eat (Mark 3:20), and not much rest (Mark 1:32–35). Not even a water-logged boat rocked by fierce waves can wake Him up.Is it reasonable for the twelve to be afraid? To this point, the twelve have seen Jesus heal physical maladies, cast out demons, teach mobs, and argue with religious leaders. As miraculous as His powers are...