How peacefully does the Lord sleep in my heart?

 Fernando, R. (2024, February 1). How peacefully does the Lord sleep in my heart? Online Ministries: Creighton University. https://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/020125.html

Reading 1, Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19

Responsorial Psalm, Luke 1:69-70, 71-72, 73-75

Gospel, Mark 4:35-41

Today’s Gospel passage from Mark 4:35-41 reveals a profound truth about faith and the state of our hearts. The disciples, overwhelmed by fear amidst the storm, woke Jesus from His sleep, doubting His care for them. His response, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” challenges us to reflect on whether our hearts are similarly restless, lacking trust in His divine power.

Faith, as described in Hebrews, is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen. Abraham’s journey exemplifies unwavering trust in God. He stepped into the unknown, dwelled as a stranger, and was willing to offer his only son, believing in God’s promises even when they seemed impossible. His faith was steadfast because he trusted the one who made the promise, allowing God to "prepare a city" for him. Likewise, the psalm reminds us that God fulfills His promises, raising up a Savior and showing mercy to His people. This assurance invites us to let our hearts rest in His faithfulness. 

Yet, when storms arise in our lives, do we mirror the disciples, panicked and doubtful, or Abraham, grounded in trust? Letting the Lord "sleep peacefully" in our hearts means surrendering our fears and placing full confidence in His providence. It means trusting that He holds our lives in His hands, even when the waves threaten to capsize our boat. Flickering faith agitates the heart, while steadfast trust brings calm, just as Jesus calmed the storm.

As today’s scripture challenges us to grow in faith, allowing the peace of Christ to reign within us, it also assures us that when we trust in God’s promises, we can face life’s storms with confidence, knowing that the One who commands the wind and sea dwells within us. Therefore, let us ask ourselves,

1. How peaceful or disturbed is the sleep of Our Lord within my heart today?
2. How can I cultivate a deeper, steadier faith that allows the Lord to rest peacefully in my heart, even during life’s storms?
3. What specific areas of my life reveal a lack of trust in God, and how can I surrender them to His care?
4. In moments of fear or uncertainty, how do I respond—like the disciples with doubt or like Abraham with faith?