‘Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.’
In the readings this week, we witness the full range of the earth’s natural order: the mountains, the wind, the sea, an earthquake and fire. Through all the upheaval and suffering that life may bring, we are reminded of God’s ever-loving presence.
In the First Reading, a solitary Elijah is invited to go to the mountain to pray. God reveals himself to Elijah not in the dramatic events he witnesses, but in a gentle, low whisper.
The Psalm reminds us that God will always provide for us, if only we open our hearts and ears to him. Guided by God’s values of mercy, peace, justice, righteousness and faith we will stay on the right path.
St Paul (Second Reading) reaches out to his fellow Jews with a great yearning that they should see and accept the abundant gifts offered by Christ their Lord.
The Gospel retells another dramatic encounter with the earth’s elements: this time the disciples are caught aboard their boat in a storm. Consumed by fear, it takes some time for them to recognise Jesus and accept his saving help.
May we be confident of the enduring presence of our Lord as we navigate our own stormy waters. We need only reach out to him.
