September 14, 2021

And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. But [Jesus] was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. Mark 4:37-38a

The LORD sent out a great wind on the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship was about to be broken up . . . But Jonah had gone down into the lowest parts of the ship, had lain down, and was fast asleep. Jonah 1:4, 5b

The humility of Jesus knows no limits. When He compared Himself to Jonah, it was for the benefit of the scribes and Pharisees who regarded Jonah as the most successful prophet. They had asked Jesus for a “sign,” and the brilliant answer given by Him implies that His Word is already filled with “signs” confirming His identity as the Savior.

“The men of Nineveh will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and indeed a greater than Jonah is here.” Matthew 12:38

The Master Teacher has given us the learning tool of comparison and contrast to carry with us throughout our travels in His Word. Let us take a brief moment to compare the naps. The most obvious similarity is that both Jesus and Jonah were tired. Jesus, in His humanity, certainly experienced physical exhaustion. He had just taught a great multitude by the sea and then more to His close followers. There is a wonderful “tiredness” leading to true rest that follows selfless giving for the benefit of others. The sleep that Jesus experienced on the pillow in the stern of the boat was sweet. True peace! That pillow symbolizes the rejuvenation that comes during the rest that God provides. The Son of Man [who] has nowhere to lay His head (Matthew 8:20) was at peace, for He kept Himself in the center of God’s will. Oh, what an example for us!

Jonah was exhausted too. Running away from God is an energy-zapping endeavor indeed! The fact that he was fast asleep shows the temporary nature and reality of false peace. Being lulled into a false sense of peace is meant—by the enemy—to take the place of true peace. Beloved, make certain you are alert and watchful. There is no shortage of false prophets in these last days (see Matthew 24:11).

For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them . . . Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:3a, 6

(see also Jeremiah 6:14; 8:11, Ezekiel 13:10, 16)