Reflection for January 7
Trevor, age 11
This particular Gospel of Mark is difficult. We understand that the disciples are afraid, but we don’t (or at least I don’t) think about their hearts being hardened. Our hearts are hardened when we do not understand. And we struggle along with the disciples.
In the first reading, from John’s First Epistle, we hear that God is Love and everyone who lives in Love lives in God and God in us. We also hear that perfect love drives out fear, and if one is fearful, they are not yet perfect in Love. Are any of us yet perfect in Love? We live in fearful times. There are fearful times in every age.
The Sea of Galilee can be a dangerous place. Because of its geography, sudden storms can create strong winds and waves. The disciples did not yet understand the miraculous feeding of thousands, and Jesus sent them off across the Sea while he prayed. Such a storm did arise, and they were fearful. Jesus saw them struggling amidst the chaos and walked across the sea to meet them. And He calmed the storm.
Jesus sees us in our struggles and chaos. He is with us in the storm. Do we let Jesus meet us in our own fearful times? Do we recognize His care?
Jesus tells the disciples, AND US, "Take courage; do not be afraid."
Judy Cooke