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Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.


Today's Gospel: Matthew 14:22-36

I stood in the shower, replaying scenes from the last few weeks as the hot water diluted my salty tears. The changes were subtle, but I easily recognized them, and I knew where we were headed. For years we’ve ridden this roller coaster of his emotions, and it appeared we were again facing a downward slope. From this place on the tracks it was impossible to know how low it would dip or how long it would last. I knew only that I didn’t want be on this ride.

My heart cried out in prayer, demanding to know how much longer we would continue along this painful course. How much longer before Jesus moved in such a way that my loved one couldn’t help but see Him? How much longer before he experienced Jesus’ healing touch? But silence was my only reply.

I know Jesus has not abandoned us. That He will continue pursuing my loved one until He is finally seen. But if I’m honest, sometimes, when this struggle is great, when the winds are fierce, I’m tempted to believe otherwise as I question His methods and His timing.

Sitting with these verses, similar questions quickly run through my brain: During their struggle, did the disciples wonder where Jesus was? Why did Jesus allow the disciples to battle the turbulent seas throughout the evening and well into the night before going to them? And why did Jesus allow the winds to continue blowing even after He stood before them, talking to them?

But after repeatedly reliving this scene in my imagination one more question slowly forms: Had the winds not been fierce, and had they not continued to blow . . . would the disciples have been able to experience and appreciate one of the greatest miracles of all time?

 

Ponder:

 

When I am unable to hear Jesus' voice or see His movements during stressful times, am I tempted to question His presence or doubt His plan?

 

Pray:

Lord, when the winds surrounding me are fierce and it feels as if there is no end in sight, help me to trust Your goodness, Your presence, and Your perfect plan.

 


Click to tweet:
Had the winds not been fierce, and had they not continued to blow … would the disciples have been able to experience and appreciate one of the greatest miracles of all time?
#dailygospel

Daily Gospel 2

 


Copyright 2022 Jennifer Scheuermann