Wednesday after Epiphany
How often in our life does trouble seem to just blow in when we least expect it? It could happen on a day you are in a hurry and your car battery doesn't start. Or perhaps the stroke of a friend or loved one changes both their life and yours forever. What can make it especially difficult is when there is little that can be done about the storm. When a severe storm comes, sometimes we can only watch and wait for it to subside.
In today’s Gospel from Mark, the disciples found themselves far out sea and in a serious predicament. Jesus had sent them ahead and now they found themselves trying to paddle out a storm. In a way, Jesus had encouraged them to put be out there. But why had Jesus done this? Did Jesus mean to put their lives in peril? Or was Jesus challenging them to trust in him?
The context of this story might help us understand. This scene takes place right after the feeding of the five thousand. Today’s gospel reminds us that though all had eaten and were satisfied, the disciples failed to recognize the significance of the miracle. Mark describes the disciples as having hardened hearts.
It is possible that Jesus allowed the disciples to fall into a situation beyond their control for a reason. This story could be a reminder that our vision can become clouded when a storm roll in? While the storm is raging, we can find life to be quite disconcerting. Ironically, it might be the very opportunity the Lord need’s in order to create an open place in our hearts. Sometimes it takes a tragedy to lay our hearts bare so that the Lord can walk into our lives and calm the storms.
In a moment of difficulty today, stop and invite the Lord into your heart. Courageously, allow the Lord to manifest peace in your heart, so that you may remain fully in God’s love.
- Michael Montgomery