He guides us and comforts us in troubling times
by Sister Laura Zelten
When life tosses us about we need only to turn to Jesus for calm and safety.
Sunday's Gospel from Mark (4:35-41) tells us of Jesus’ divine power not simply to impress upon us who Jesus is but to give us confidence that no matter what trouble affects us, no matter the storm we find ourselves in, those who trust Jesus can have confidence in his power to save. The disciples turn to Jesus for help in time of great need. They trust that Jesus can rescue them from the storm on the sea.
Can you remember a time in your life when you experienced fear? You may not have been on a body of water but you might have believed you would perish. It might have been the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, financial difficulties, or a life-threatening medical condition.
How did you respond to this situation? Did you trust Jesus? Or did you react as the disciples did to the storm at sea: with fear and trembling? Did you lose faith in God and Jesus? During painful and difficult times, it is natural to question Jesus. Yet, we need Jesus especially during the confusing and frightening times in our lives.
Today we celebrate Father’s Day. In my family we also celebrate my Dad’s 90th birthday. I am grateful my Dad is a person who amplifies Jesus’ virtues of love and security. Throughout my life I have turned to him for advice, knowing he is a man of God.
When I wanted to enter religious life, he was the first person I turned to for direction. He calmed my anxious feelings of not feeling worthy enough and advised me to put my trust in Jesus’ call to serve. He is an example of a man of great faith who clings to Jesus in times of storms. When mom died at a young age, he was there to provide love and security for my sisters and me. Even in his loneliness he walked with us so we were not alone.
Yes, like the disciples in the Gospel today we are called to trust in Jesus. He will guide and comfort us in times of trouble. Who is the person you turn to when you need the calm and comfort of Jesus?
Thank you, Laura, for sharing this story of gratitude and love for your father. Tears came to my eyes as I read the note that, after the early death of your mother, he cared for you and your sisters. What a beautiful memory of a father responding with love to a great loss. Yes, he must be close to God !