Reflection: Mark 6:45-52

Wednesday after Epiphany – Mark 6:45-52

Today, the Church gives us the familiar story of “the storm at sea.”  I assume that most of us can put ourselves into this story.  At various times in our lives, we have experienced emotional “storms” that overwhelm us.  It may have been an illness, the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, or a financial crisis. Violent storms are not easy to weather.  And even once the storm has blown over, these storms typically leave us with a residue of pain, loss, confusion, and anxiety.

What storm in your life do you remember?  Take a moment and reflect on that experience.  Did the storm last for a few days, weeks, or even months?  Who supported you during this difficult time?  Who journeyed with you?  Was Jesus with you in this experience?  Did you sense His presence and care?  Or did you feel alone and perhaps abandoned? 

We do know and believe that Jesus is with us!  However, we may not experience a tangible sense  of His presence.  However, Jesus often comes to us in various guises.  It might be a friend who calls or a song that plays on the radio that speak to us.  Perhaps we experience Jesus in looking at the bare trees of winter or watching the snow quietly fall from the heavens. 

Our part is to look deeply for Jesus.  He is with us!  However, we need to be awake and alert.  Today open your eyes and hearts.   Jesus will come today.  Will we see Him and recognize Him?