Daily Gospel Reflection for April 18, 2015

Today's Gospel: John 6:16-21

Today’s gospel is short and sweet. The apostles set out across the sea to Capernaum. They noted that it was already dark and Jesus had not yet come to them. I thought this was an odd thing to note. Were they fully expecting him to show up right in their boat in the middle of the sea? Did they think He was late and set off ahead of Him?

When Jesus does show up, walking on water amongst the billowy waves and sea, they become afraid and doubtful. What a strange way to behave when you’re already expecting somebody to show up!

The apostles’ gut reaction was to bring Jesus into the boat as if they wanted to save Him from drowning. Jesus responds by immediately bringing them safely to shore in a way where they didn’t even notice the trip, reminding them that He is sovereign above all.

Isn’t this so much like us? During the dark times in life, sometimes our heads believe that God will come through, but our hearts still doubt. We don’t recognize His presence in our storms because the wind and the waves are so loud and frightening. We wonder why He is late in answering our prayers, and we might set off ahead of Him. Have you ever gotten ahead of God that way?

Ponder:

Are you going through dark times? Don’t get ahead of Jesus. When you set off on your own, you are depending on your own strength. Keep your focus on Jesus. He doesn’t need you to tell Him the way to go. He is the one that will navigate you safely home.

Pray:

Jesus, I trust in you. I believe! Help my unbelief.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Victoria Garaitonandia Gisondi