"And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Matthew 8: 24-26
This painting captures a moment, where Jesus is depicted asleep on a boat amidst a tempestuous storm. The sea churns with a wild ferocity, its waves threatening to engulf the small vessel, while the skies above are a turbulent of dark clouds and fierce winds. Yet, in the midst of this chaos, Jesus rests in a peaceful slumber, his expression one of absolute tranquility and trust.
The scene recalls the biblical account where the disciples, gripped by fear, wake Jesus in a panic, saying, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” Jesus, untroubled, rises and rebukes the wind, and says to the waves, “Peace! Be still!” The wind ceases and there is a great calm.
A singular butterfly, rests gently near Jesus' hand. This delicate creature, usually so susceptible to the whims of the wind, is here a symbol of that same faith. It does not flutter or flee but remains steadfast beside the sleeping Savior, undisturbed by the surrounding turmoil. The butterfly enhances the narrative, a silent witness to the power of divine serenity.
This image is a visual to the notion of faith in the midst of life's storms. It is a reminder that, like the butterfly alighting next to the embodiment of peace, we too can find rest and assurance in faith, even when the storms of life rage around us. It speaks to the heart, urging us to trust in the one who commands the wind and the waves, and to find in Him our place of peace.
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