[ Today's Readings ]
Jesus shows us who he is by walking on water, something only God can do. He is the one whom even the wind and the sea obey. He does all things well. Naturally, facing the storms of life, we want him present in our boats. But more fundamental than this is for us to realize who he is, to have faith even in the storms.
But he said to them, "It is I. Do not be afraid."
The disciples want him to join them. They want his presence. But this revelation wherein Jesus uses the Divine Name and does what only God can do is what these disciples need right now. Jesus is Jesus even in the storms, even when we don't sense him in our boats. And knowing this, we are safe from all that could do us harm.
They wanted to take him into the boat,
but the boat immediately arrived at the shore
to which they were heading.
This story has a practical lesson as well. For those of us who can't be everywhere at once, we don't have to be. We only need to be where God calls us.
Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men,
filled with the Spirit and wisdom,
whom we shall appoint to this task,
whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer
and to the ministry of the word.
Most often God calls us to use the special gifts he gives us. He calls us to do what we're uniquely able to do for him because of the charisms which he bestows. And if that means that there are ten other things we aren't doing we needn't worry. He's a big enough God to handle them.
The word of God continued to spread,
and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly;
We needn't be afraid to use our gifts because we can trust Jesus even in the storms.
See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him,
upon those who hope for his kindness,
To deliver them from death
and preserve them in spite of famine.
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