Even the winds and sea obey him
By Greg Zambrano
The Gospel teaches our kids and ourselves that, when in need, you are never alone. We might feel, sometimes, like we are completely 100% on our own, and there is no one to assist us. We lose hope and view things, that are truly small, much worse than what they are.
Hoping and valuing empty promises of salvation is cause to fear.
There is a better way – depending on Jesus. He is a true friend ready to help. We simply have to know him before our time of need.
Here are three images I use when in turmoil.
Firstly, I consider Matthew 4:5-7. Maintain a state of grace and don’t stray to a dangerous place that tempts God. Jesus can rescue you.
The second picture is Jesus asleep while the storm is causing the boat to sink, and I am in the middle of a turbulent ocean. Jesus awoke, rebuked the wind and calmed the sea, “Peace! Be still,” and the wind ceased. “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” Jesus tells the disciples on the boat (Mark 4:35-40). He is telling this to me, and everyone that needs to trust Jesus.
Great calm over the water, reminds me of Genesis (Gen 1:2) and God the almighty creator. (Gen 1:2)
The third and final image is of Jesus walking on water (John 6:16–24). In this passage, the disciples in the boat are in the middle of a stormy sea when Jesus walks on water towards them. They are terrified. He tells them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” Jesus stepped on the boat and joined them. I always enjoy reading the final line of this passage: “They were immediately at their destination when Jesus joined them.”
When we suffer, the worst part of suffering is not knowing how long we have to suffer. We sometimes lose hope, become desperate and want to give up. That’s when we can call Jesus to be by our side in various ways: through charitable contributions, merciful acts, eucharistic adoration, prayer, reading Scripture and attending Mass.
“I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be” (John 14:3). Let us not panic. Keep faithful to Jesus because his promise is unbreakable.
Truthfully, the solution to our worries is so simple, but I usually complicate things. With devotion, ask Jesus to come onboard your life and immediately your soul will be at the heavenly destination.
