GOSPEL, John 6, 16-21

Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Saint John

 

Jesus Walks on the Water

¹⁶ When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, ¹⁷ got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. ¹⁸ The sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing. ¹⁹ When they had rowed about three or four miles they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they were terrified. ²⁰ But he said to them, “It is I do not be afraid.” ²¹ Then they wanted to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the land toward which they were going.

The Gospel of the Lord

 

REFLECTION

 To faithfully interpret today’s passage, (John 6: 16-21) we have to use symbolism. The apostles are alone, at night, in the middle of the turbulent sea, a symbol of evil, dominated by the evil one. The barge represents the Kingdom. Without Jesus, the adverse winds dominate the boat and prevents it from reaching its destination. When they see him walking on the sea, they recognize that it is the Lord and are struck with fear…

This text demonstrates the transcendence and independence of Jesus, manifested before the physical laws of nature; it reveals his total control and command of events as the creator and not the creature. So that our response today can be non-other than the same as that of those on the boat. “Truly, you are the Son of God!”

We may indeed experience fear in our lives but the greatest fear that we should have, is being separated from God and of failing to have a loving relationship with Him. Even in adverse circumstances, God seeks to enter into a relationship with all humanity, for we are all his children. We must try to “understand” the incomprehensible. We must not remain closed to matters, which are not easily explained or even reasonable. Let us accept God’s surprises and our anxieties will disappear.

Each of us bears his cross, it is true, but even though we suffer setbacks and disappointments, we should accept these with forbearance and lightness of heart. If Jesus is always beside us, we are empowered to speak to truth, always charitable and never to offend or hurt others feelings.

We can then take comfort in the present and in the future waiting with renewed optimism and energy for one that is more fulfilling.In addition, after long deep reflection He tells us in our hearts “It is I, do not be afraid”.

Prayer

 OH Mighty God, from the moment You were conceived in Jesus Christ, it was your will to drive all of your children’s fears away. Help us to be open to your Will in our lives and to understand and have faith, that You always want the best for us. I will fear no more!  Amen.