Today’s Gospel tells of a storm, the disciples’ fear of drowning, the feeling of abandonment and the call for help. In the ancient Near East the sea symbolized the power of chaos and evil in the struggle against God.
In our life of faith sometimes we may have feelings of being close to God. Perhaps when we pray or worship or when we experience good times, happiness, love or joy, we glimpse the presence of God with us. Sometimes life demands very much from us, especially in times of darkness, suffering and pain. At these times we can feel very isolated and alone. The Gospel today reminds us that the God who is with us in good times is the same God who is with us in difficult times. God is always present, recognized or not! No matter what happens in life, we can turn to Jesus who helps us and brings us peace. How will you bring His peace to others?
It is not easy being a father. Today we salute fathers. Dads, we love you. The role of a Christian father is more important in today’s world than ever before. It is a different roll than in earlier generations. In most households today Dad is called upon to play more of a nurturing role in caring for children. If Mom works outside the home, Dad must take a more active role in doing household chores. Dad is no longer “lord of the castleâ€.
Today’s father needs to be nurturing of his children, supportive of his wife, and yet the same time provide the spiritual leadership of the home that the Bible accords to fathers. It is a rare man, a special kind of man, who can combine all three of these qualities. We salute Christian fathers this day. Your family needs you more than ever before.