(Audio recorded live, 20 June 2021)

Readings:

Jb. 38:1, 8-11; Ps. 107; 2 Cor. 5:14-17; Mk. 4:35-41

Today, we hear about the power God has over all creation. The Lord reminds Job of the limits that were set between the land and the sea. St. Paul reminds us that whoever is in Christ is a new creation. And Jesus shows his power over nature by calming the storm, saying, “Quiet! Be still!” It is no wonder our Psalm has us giving thanks to the Lord for his everlasting love. For if we were to reflect a bit more upon each of these realities, we would have to conclude that God made land so we could live on the land; that God sent Christ so he could restore our fallen nature; and that Jesus’ power over the sea is a manifestation of God’s love and concern for his people. But, all this, for what? So the disciples could be filled with awe? Or might there be something else?

When Jesus decides to cross over to the other side, he is leading the disciples away from Jewish territory and over to Gentile territory. He was leading them away from home, out of their comfort zone, and into a region that was considered cursed and unclean. Could you imagine the thoughts in the minds of the disciples when they discovered they were going on mission to pagan territory? What kind of storms might have been brewing in their hearts? What kind of resistance might they have felt? And as Jesus was asleep in the stern of the boat, a violent storm descends upon them. The waves were crashing over the boat and they were afraid of sinking. Perhaps the idea of “sink or swim” comes to mind. And when they felt they could take no more, they awaken the Master, who calms the sea saying, “Quiet! Be still!”

“Be still and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.” (Ps. 46:11). This is the heart of Psalm 46, which echoes what we heard from the Book of Job. In other words, God is in charge, and Jesus shows that he is the Son of God by his power over nature. So, today, as we reflect upon the awesome power of God, we might ask ourselves: Who is in charge of my life? Is it me? Or is it God? What are the storms in my life? Am I afraid to face them? Am I afraid of sinking? Or will I wake up Christ within me, and ask him to calm the storm?

Today’s celebration of the Eucharist is a welcome respite in a world that is full of storms. May the communion we share, help us to appreciate who is truly in charge of our life: Jesus Christ, who created the world and everything in it, who loved us into being, giving us a share in his Divine Life through the sacraments, and who dwells within each of us. All we need ever do is awaken him in our hearts.

Given during the COVID-19 pandemic.