Saturday of the Second Week of Easter

Today's Mass Readings

The various Gospel accounts of the encounters of Jesus and His disciples on the sea are powerful. Away from the security and sure-footing of the land, the sea can be tumultuous and unpredictable, which leaves the disciples vulnerable.

St. John recounted: “It had already grown dark and Jesus had not yet come to them.” Life can seem dark and feel Jesus is either absent or elusive, which is what the disciples were experiencing on the sea as the strong wind was blowing.

They were struck with fear, beginning to be afraid because of the stormy conditions. It’s similar to the unpredictability in our lives where we are confronted by the forces that are beyond our control (financial struggles, health problems, relationship challenges, doubts, uncertainty), and we realize we are vulnerable. Most of us like to live in controlled and comfortable circumstances and rarely have to face, on a daily basis, things that seem beyond our power. We live in safety and security. Yet, when the unexpected news or difficulty arises, our illusion of security and control is shattered.

Remember this: Jesus always comes. He always shows up. Jesus comes to the Apostles on the sea, and He comes with power over all—over all the elements—walking on water and showing His dominion over nature. Jesus can harness all the uncertainties of our lives. He doesn’t need a boat to come to us, the clear cut means we would expect, He can come to us how He wants, no means of transportation necessary.

Jesus always comes. He never abandons us.

Reflection by Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB