Week 412

Positive Post Sunday, January 19, 2025…. Week 412.  As I was reviewing my notes from past spiritual readings and reflecting on homilies from recent Masses, I came across a note on Fr. Erik Esparza’s homily back in June of last year. During his homily, he asked the question, “Are you going to be in Jesus’ boat when the storm comes?”. He noted that, during difficult times, if we see not only with our eyes, but through our hearts, we will feel Jesus calming the winds and seas. This inspired me to write about the many storms we face during our lives and, with His guidance, how we can navigate through them with grace and humility.

Life is full of unexpected storms – challenges, trials, and tribulations that can shake us to our core. These storms can come in many forms: personal crises, health issues, financial troubles, or even global events that impact us all. In such times, finding a source of strength, peace, and hope is crucial. For many, that source is our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. The question is, are you going to be in Jesus’ boat when the storm comes?

The Biblical Account
In the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 4:37-40, we find the story of Jesus calming the storm. After a long day of teaching, Jesus and His disciples set out across the Sea of Galilee. As they sailed, a furious storm arose, causing the disciples to panic. They woke Jesus, who was sleeping, and cried out, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” Jesus woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!”  The wind ceased and there was great calm.  Then Jesus asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”

Faith Amidst the Storms
This story is a powerful reminder of the peace and protection that Jesus offers. When we are in His boat, we are assured of His presence and His power to calm the storms in our lives. But being in Jesus’ boat requires faith—a trust that He is in control, even when the waves seem overwhelming.

Why Choose Jesus’ Boat?
Presence of Peace: In the midst of chaos, Jesus provides a peace that surpasses all understanding. His presence brings comfort and reassurance, knowing that we are not alone in our struggles.

Source of Strength: Jesus is our source of strength. When we feel weak and powerless, He empowers us to face our challenges with courage and resilience.

Guidance and Wisdom: Jesus offers guidance and wisdom. By trusting in Him, we can navigate through life’s uncertainties with clarity and purpose.

Unfailing Love: Jesus’ love is unconditional and unfailing. His sacrifice on the cross is a testament to His deep love for us, and His promise to never leave us or forsake us.

How to Be in Jesus’ Boat
Develop a Relationship: Spend time in prayer, reading the Bible, and reflect on His teachings. Building a relationship with Jesus allows you to know Him better and trust Him more fully.

Surrender Your Worries: Lay your burdens at His feet and trust that He will handle them. Surrendering to Jesus means letting go of control and allowing Him to work in your life.

Seek Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who can support and encourage you in your faith journey. A strong faith community can provide strength and comfort during difficult times.

Live Out Your Faith: Show your faith through your actions. Serve others, demonstrate love and compassion, and be a beacon of hope in the world.

When the storms of life come, being in Jesus’ boat makes all the difference. He has the power to calm the wind and the seas, and He offers us peace, strength, and love. By placing our trust in Him and building a relationship with Him, we can face life’s challenges with confidence and hope. Embrace His presence, trust in His power, and find peace in the knowledge that He will calm the storm.

How do you live the gospel, and apply the homilies you hear at church in your everyday life?

Are you ready to be in Jesus’ boat when the storms come?