We all know that “storms” are an inevitable part of every life. However, faith assures us that the Lord is with us, you and me, in every trial and will give us his peace if we simply open our mind and heart to receive it.
This Sunday’s Scriptures proclaim three means to open ourselves to receive God’s gift of grace. First, quiet your heart and listen intently to God’s voice, as Elijah did. Next, be willing to empty yourself completely for others, as St. Paul says of himself today: “I will willingly be condemned if it could help my brothers.” Finally, like the disciples, learn to trust Jesus when he says, “Courage, do not be afraid, it is I.”
Like Elijah, let us make ourselves available to be where God wants us to be so He can meet us and show us his power and peace. We always need to have a meeting point with God for when and where He waits for us. That place, of course, is our heart—our innermost sanctuary where God wishes to dwell. Therefore, we want to be prepared; we want to keep our heart ready at all times. So, patiently wait for God to speak to you in the solitude and quiet of your heart.
In the second reading, Paul expresses the grief he carries for his people who have rejected the Christ who has offered them salvation and peace. In other words, he deeply feels the need for his brothers and sisters to be saved, just as he himself has been saved. Paul teaches us that we are called to think not only of ourselves but also to be concerned for the well-being of others. Then, God will fill us with inner peace and we will experience His presence and we will be able to speak heart-to-heart with God. Elijah found the God of peace by rushing to help his people. So too, will we by doing the same.
In this Sunday’s Gospel, we hear that the disciples experienced a terrifying, life-threatening storm but Jesus was right there! With a word, He calmed the stormy sea! He saved them! Right now, we may be facing storms that rock our boat: sickness, family difficulties, shaky marriages, joblessness, dwindling finances, etc. In the midst of these challenges, Jesus is there for us! He is always close by and will calm that storm! Just ask! Once again, He tells us, “Cast all your burdens on me because I care…” (1Pt. 5,7) and, in faith we respond, “Jesus, I place my trust in You.”
With faith we hold firmly to Jesus who is ready to guide us through the raging storms of life, for He is our Savior, our peace. Let our fervent prayer, like that of the Psalmist be: “O Lord, let us see your mercy and give us your saving help!”