LIST OF OUR FEARS
In the midst of the storm on the sea, Jesus calmed fear by evoking trust
in Himself.
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!