“RISEN WITH CHRIST”
Easter Reflections
Saturday, 29th April 2017,
Second Week of Easter
Memorial of St. Catherine of Siena, Doctor of the Church
Acts 6:1-7
Ps 33:1-2,4-5,18-19,22
Jn 6:16-21
CALMING ALL OUR STORMS!
In today’s Gospel, Jesus walks on the water in the stormy night and says “It is I. Do not be afraid.” Today’s Gospel strengthens us to face turmoil and strong winds, there is nothing to fear.
Being in the middle of the sea is frightening in the dark. Every direction looks the same and we cannot see the land. We feel as though we are surrounded by nothing. The Apostles are out, in the dark sea. They would have been feeling a bit lost as if they were in the middle of nowhere. But, in the midst of this experience, Jesus came walking to them and told them, “It is I. Do not be afraid.”
We see in this experience of the Apostles the daily experience of many of us. Many can feel as if they are surrounded by nothing, alone and lost. The Gospel passage reveals to us that Jesus comes to us no matter where we are or whatever the situation is that we find ourselves in. He does not wait for us to come and find Him, rather, He enters into our lives right where we are.
Perhaps our life is filled with activity, but we still feel alone. Perhaps our life is one where we do not have many around and constantly feel lonely or isolated. Or perhaps we put on a good face and present our self as one who has it all together, but inside we are deeply struggling. Whatever the case may be, Jesus wants to come to us and to console us. Listen to Him say to you, “It is I.” As you hear Him say these words, turn to Him and acknowledge His presence. Let Him come into the dark sea that you may feel surrounds you. Hear Him say, “Do not be afraid.” These experiences in life might be frightful and take hold of us. But if we let ourselves focus in on Jesus, the fear disappears. We discover, deep within, that Jesus is right there and that all is well because He cares and is in control. Let Him into the boat of your heart and let Him take over. He is coming to you and is waiting for a response.
Prayer: Lord, so often I fail to acknowledge Your divine presence in my life. So often I fail to see you coming to me. Help me to know that You are always there. Free me from the many fears of life, dear Lord, and give me courage to welcome You fully into my life. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen.
Copyright ©2013-2017 ©JoyCat, Joy of the Catholic Life: see www.joy-cat.blogspot.com.
