Memorial of St. Dominic, Priest
Today’s reading from the Gospel of Matthew is clearly an extension of yesterday’s description of Jesus feeding the hungry crowds. We can almost hear his words and feel his relief as He dismissed the people on that day: “At last, I can tell my disciples to go fishing and I can go up to higher ground and share my mixed feelings in prayer with My Father!”
Inspired by the Holy Spirit the early Christian Community treasured these oral accounts of significant events in the life of Jesus. These ancient Gospel stories bridge the gap of past history and yet touch our most personal human experiences of today.
Few of us can imagine the experience of being violently storm-tossed in a small fishing boat in the middle of the night, but we all have our stories of being desperately afraid in the dark. Rescue came slowly, perhaps only a glimmer of light or a sign of hope. Eventually, with time and hindsight, we must admit that it was the gracious and merciful love of God which touched and even saved our life.
Our inner self is a very guarded place not often revealed to others even ourselves at times, and yet what better place would we expect the Lord to come to us, even in the midst of storm clouds? The disciples had to be reassured to have faith at that moment. Do we hear the Lord telling us: “It is I, do not be afraid!”
Reflection by Fr. Daniel Petsche, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections