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Today's Gospel: Mark 6:45-52

It is still the Christmas season, and I am still picturing Jesus as a tiny baby wrapped in swaddling clothes. Throughout Advent and Christmas, the message of salvation is so very clear. Emmanuel, God With Us, comes for you and for me. He is born a helpless baby so that we can see how approachable God truly is.

When I imagine the Baby Jesus, it’s as if He is saying just what today’s Gospel says: “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid.” And I instantly feel at peace, as I gaze upon Him lying in the manger.

At Christmas, Jesus comes to save us.

But His love, His work, and His saving grace don't end in the manger, which is made clear by how quickly the Gospels move from His birth and infancy into His public ministry and the signs He gives that reveal His true nature as Son of God.

Again in today’s Gospel, Jesus comes to save. When the sea is tossing the disciples about, He comes. He doesn’t say much, but what He says is powerful: “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid.” 

How often does life toss us about? How often does the unexpected disappoint our hopes and dreams? And in the midst of the tossing and turning, frustrations and disappointments, Jesus comes. Again and again, He comes. He comes to remind us of His great power. He comes to give us courage in the midst of life’s difficulties. He comes so we don’t have to fear. He comes so we can feel His peace.

Ponder:

Is there something in your life that is causing worry or fear to overwhelm you? Today, take a few moments to reflect upon Jesus’ coming as a baby in order to calm the storms of your life, surrender your fears to Him and allow yourself to bask in His peace!

Pray:

Dear Jesus, thank You for coming to us at Christmas! Thank you for showing us just how approachable You are. Help us to turn to You in all of life’s circumstances. Open the ears of our hearts, that we may truly hear You telling us, “It is I, do not be afraid.” Amen.

Copyright 2014 Sarah Damm