Reflection for February 1 Saturday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time: Mark 4:35-41

Gospel: Mark 4:35-41

On that day, as evening drew on, Jesus said to his disciples: “Let us cross to the other side.” Leaving the crowd, they took Jesus with them in the boat just as he was. And other boats were with him. A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was already filling up.  

Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” They were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?”

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Reflection:

Are we easily rattled when we pass through stormy episodes in our lives? Or do we remain calm amidst the storms because we know that Jesus is always there for us? 

The disciples were in a boat with Jesus when they suddenly encountered a violent storm. They were terrified, thinking the boat might not withstand the storm. Why were they afraid when Jesus was with them? Perhaps they were overtaken by fear. 

As long as we exist in this world, we will continue to encounter our own share of storms and worrisome moments. But let us not be afraid—let us remain calm in the midst of life's storms. Let us learn to always trust the Lord, for He knows what is best for us. The Lord will not let us down; He will always be there to save us. 

We simply need to stay constantly connected with the Lord because He will take care of everything. Jesus will calm us in the midst of our distressing storms. He will make a way when there seems to be no way.

All He asks from us is to have faith, and we can receive this if we ask Him for the gift of faith. Faith is a gift that Jesus gives to those who sincerely ask for it. 

Prayer:

O Lord, in the midst of the many storms in our lives, we beseech You to give us the gift of faith so that we may withstand whatever worrisome situations we encounter. Forgive our feeble faith. Forgive us for not trusting You and for not always recognizing that You are always with us. Amen. — Marino J. Dasmarinas