1st reading: Acts 6:1-7:They elected seven men full of the Holy Spirit.
Resp. Psalm: Ps. 32(33)1-2,4-5,18-19: May your love be upon us, O Lord, as we place all our hope in you.
Gospel: John 6:16-21: They saw Jesus walking on the lake.
In today’s reading of John 6:16, we see the disciples in a boat on their way to Capernaum. A strong wind blows, and as they are three to four miles out, they see Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat. He tells them, “It is I. Do not be afraid”. Almost immediately, the boat arrives at the shore where they were going.
How many times have we been in a circumstance of fear – fear of the unknown, fear of illness, fear of an unsettled relationship, fear for our safety, fear of some storm of our own experience that is blowing us in every possible direction. So many times, in our lives, we find ourselves praying for Jesus to save us – be near us – take away our fear; and he does.
Today’s readings is a reminder that God is always present with us. In today’s first reading, as the number of the disciples were growing, they started facing difficulties and to settle it they prayed to the Lord. Whether we can feel his presence or not, let us place our concerns before the Lord. he will wrap with his loving arms around us.
Let us constantly lay our burdens at his feet – at the foot of the Cross – and allow him to take away our fears. He is constantly watching and waiting for us to allow him to take control of the storms in our lives. What high waves and powerful storms are struggling with now?
Recognize Jesus’ presence in your life. He will protect you, because he always has, and always will.
Peace!
Fr. Osho