Calming The Storm
Stories
Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit
Series II Cycle B
The Lake of Galilee is on the northern end of the rift valley. It is the world's lowest (680 feet below sea level) freshwater lake. It is about 150 feet at its deepest. The lake covers about ninety square miles.
In Jesus' time the lake was a rich fishing place. Several villages were built around the lake and it was important for the local economy. It was also important for Jesus' disciples, as Jesus chose seven of his followers from the lake.
To this day two varieties of fish are caught in the lake: tilapia and sardines. They are caught by modern methods now, but in Jesus' day they were caught with nets. The nets were circular with small weights spaced around the perimeter. As the net was thrown in a spinning motion on the water, the weights dragged the net down and the fisherman would pull the cord attached at the center. The fish would become entangled and be covered by the net, making it easy for the fish to be hauled to shore or to the boat.
The lake and its fishing symbols were important to Jesus' ministry. He used fishing, water, and catching terms because he knew his audience would understand. Using terminology that helps paint a picture is important: using terminology that is familiar to the audience will make their lives connect to the story.
Once Jesus calmed a great storm. The Lake of Galilee often saw sudden storms, and the fishermen knew the fury a storm could hold. They were fearful. Jesus calmed not only their fears but also the storm.
Are you facing a storm: Are you in the midst of a raging fury? Are you stifled by a crisis that you can't see past?
Let Jesus' love unfold you like a net. Let God's strong arms pull you in so you can live the life God intends for you. Ask God to help you. God has created life in you. Don't allow it to be destroyed.
In Jesus' time the lake was a rich fishing place. Several villages were built around the lake and it was important for the local economy. It was also important for Jesus' disciples, as Jesus chose seven of his followers from the lake.
To this day two varieties of fish are caught in the lake: tilapia and sardines. They are caught by modern methods now, but in Jesus' day they were caught with nets. The nets were circular with small weights spaced around the perimeter. As the net was thrown in a spinning motion on the water, the weights dragged the net down and the fisherman would pull the cord attached at the center. The fish would become entangled and be covered by the net, making it easy for the fish to be hauled to shore or to the boat.
The lake and its fishing symbols were important to Jesus' ministry. He used fishing, water, and catching terms because he knew his audience would understand. Using terminology that helps paint a picture is important: using terminology that is familiar to the audience will make their lives connect to the story.
Once Jesus calmed a great storm. The Lake of Galilee often saw sudden storms, and the fishermen knew the fury a storm could hold. They were fearful. Jesus calmed not only their fears but also the storm.
Are you facing a storm: Are you in the midst of a raging fury? Are you stifled by a crisis that you can't see past?
Let Jesus' love unfold you like a net. Let God's strong arms pull you in so you can live the life God intends for you. Ask God to help you. God has created life in you. Don't allow it to be destroyed.
