Saturday, April 13, 2002
2nd Week of Easter
1st Reading: Acts 6:1-7
Gospel: Jn 6:16-21
When
evening came, the disciples went down to the shore. After a while they
got into a boat to make for Capernaum on the other side of the sea, for
it was now dark and Jesus had not yet come to them. But the sea was getting
rough because a strong wind was blowing.
They had rowed about three or four miles, when they saw Jesus walking
on the sea, and he was drawing near to the boat. They were frightened,
but he said to them, "It is Me; don't be afraid."
They wanted to take him into the boat, but immediately the boat was at
the shore to which they were going.
Commentary
Jesus. Not a message, not a teaching, not a code of conduct, but a person. "Do not be afraid, it is I." Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. This is how he was experienced by the first Christians. This is how he walks with us today. Suddenly, without being invited, he takes the initiative, he draws near to us in the crises of our lives. This is a powerful gospel passage for sharing with others who want to find and be found by God in their daily lives. Many have found themselves carried by Christ across a deep and stormy sea. Celebrate the Easter season by meeting with friends to pray and share around this gospel. Did he come to you when life was dark and stormy?