All the miracle stories in the Gospel can also be interpreted as parables, for, like the story-parables, they are instruments of revelation, teaching and encouragement.

The disciples are in difficulties, a theme which occurs in other stories of Jesus stilling storms. Matthew (8:23-27) gives us an insight into the interpretation of the storm stories. Jesus had just spoken about the hardships of the apostolic calling and of following him. Jesus got into the boat followed by his disciples (Mt.8:23). Jesus fell asleep in the boat, causing the disciples to panic. The boat is the Church and when Jesus is not there we get into great difficulties. With the Psalmist in many of the Psalms, we may even feel that God is asleep and has abandoned us. Then too, ironically, as in John's story, when Jesus does approach us, we become afraid and need to hear the consoling words: "Do not be afraid!"