Scripture:
Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19
Mark 4:35-41
Reflection:
One of the wonderful traits that I see in our small grandchildren is that they have great faith in their parents. They believe that their parents can do anything and as a result, these confident grandchildren seem to go about their play with great joy and freedom from fear. If they get hurt, they go to their mother. If some toy gets broken, they go to their father. Their faith is very practical. They know that their parents are powerful and loving.
This is the kind of faith that we encounter in today’s readings.
As Jesus and his apostles were crossing the lake, a storm arose. For a while the apostles were managing……they were in control – if only barely. In such instances, it’s easy to convince ourselves that we have faith.
As the storm intensified and the boat was in danger of sinking, the apostles suddenly discovered that things were out of their control.
To find oneself in a situation like this is both humbling and terrifying. But it is precisely in times like this that we discover whether or not we really have faith.
We need faith in all the moments of our lives. Most everyone turns to God in times of great danger. If we cannot or will not seek God in the quiet moments of our lives, we are not likely to find Him when trouble strikes. If we have learned to seek Him and trust Him in quiet moments, then most certainly we will find Him when the going gets rough.
When a storm of confusion threatens us and the waters of life become troubled and turbulent, we can be comforted in faith when we hear His powerful and loving words, "Quiet. Be still."
Deacon Brian Clements is on the staff at Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center, Sierra Madre, California.