Dailoy reflection _ list of our fears


LIST OF OUR FEARS
In the midst of the storm on the sea, Jesus calmed fear by evoking trust in Himself.
Deacon John Ruscheinsky
It was dark not only physically, but spiritually as well. Although they were experienced in their trade, they were fearful for their lives. Jesus' sudden presence on the sea only made them more fearful! St. John says the Apostles were frightened. And Jesus had to calm them with reassuring words: "Do not be afraid because I am here with you!" (Jn 6:19-20)
What fear can do! We each have our list of our fears. Today's Gospel talks about darkness, violent wind, and water. We all are afraid of a storm some time within our lives. Fear can mean fighting for survival in many situations. We can fear what the future holds for us, the increased price of gas and the instability of the stock market today is proof of that, even if there is no real great danger in the future that we can think of at the present moment. Putting fear always in front of us can keep us from making sound decisions and effectively handling our responsibilities, not just for our own benefit but for those around us as well. It was once said that the most persistent fear we humans have is the fear of public opinion. It seems we want things to be and to go perfectly all the time.
Jesus gave good advice to the disciples and to us also today. His advice can help us deal with both rational and irrational fears. In the midst of the storm on the sea, Jesus calmed fear by evoking trust in Himself. Jesus assured His disciples that the storm was no match compared to Him.
Reverend Dale E. Turner wrote this about overcoming fear: "The wisest people are those who, although unrelenting in their quest for answers, trustingly leave some of the problems in the hands of God who knows the whole."
In our responsorial psalm we acclaim, "Lord, let Your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in You" (Ps 33). Upright is the word and all His works, for He loves justice and kindness.
Trust in Him!