People who loved Jesus beyond measure asked Him two of the most amazing questions recorded in the New Testament. When a powerful storm threatened to capsize their boat in the Sea of Galilee, the disciples asked the question, “But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, ‘Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?’” (Mark 4:38 ESV). On another occasion, Mary was relaxed and listening to Jesus, and a stressed-out Martha came from the kitchen and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me” (Luke 10:40).
Both questions were asked by people who had been with Jesus prior to these events. They had listened to His teaching and had seen His miracles and the power of God at work. They fully expected the Lord to step in to relieve their anxiety. It seemed that the Lord was ignoring their situation, and we can tell that there was some exasperation and weariness added to their questions: “Don’t you care about us?” or “Don’t you care about me?”
It is difficult to judge the tone of Jesus’ reply in these passages. It seems that Jesus did use a tone of caring, gentleness and love. Notice the Master’s response: “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” (Mark 4:40). “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things…” (Luke 10:41).
Often, we feel overwhelmed and utterly alone in our circumstances. One of our hymns is titled, “Does Jesus Care?” Of course He cares! He is the One who calms the storms in our lives. He is the One who knows our names. He is the One who cares for us!
“O yes, He cares, I know He cares His heart is touched with my grief; When the days are weary, The long nights dreary, I know my Saviour cares.”
