April 18, 2015

John 6: 16-21

When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing. 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. But he said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” Then they wanted to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the land toward which they were going.

New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved http://www.usccb.org/bible/approved-translations

 

In Rough Seas

Tornado sirens blared loudly early this morning where I live. They sounded after a night of strong winds and breaking branches. It was hard to sleep….the hours ticked by oh so slowly! I kept thinking about unfinished business and chores incomplete. At one point I even started catastrophizing about whether “this is it.” Thrashing around in bed I thought of relationships that need mending, conversations I have put off. Finally I took some deep breaths, reached for my rosary, and had a conversation  with God about family and future. Slowly I found peace, especially as I handed things over to the Lord.

The weeks of Easter offer perspective as the Risen Jesus invites us to see the bigger picture and take the longer view of things. The weekly and even daily “dyings and risings” we experience are practical invitations to place our hopes and fears, our needs and desires into God’s hands. Today, deep inside, can I trust in God’s goodness? Can I trust the words Jesus speaks today: “It is I; do not be afraid.”

―The Jesuit prayer team

 

Prayer

Only in God will my soul be at rest, from his goodness my hope, my salvation. He alone is my rock of safety, my strength,my glory,my God.

Trust in him at all times, all people, and pour out your hearts. God himself is a refuge for all and a stronghold for our fears.

Only in God ….

―John Foley, S.J., Only in God, © OCP Publications, Inc., 1976

 
Please share the Good Word with your friends!