Wednesday after Epiphany – 1 Jn 4:11-18; Mark 6:45-52
Picture the scene: Jesus has just pulled off that breath-taking miracle of multiplying the loaves. Straight afterwards, He heads off to a quiet corner to pray. Meanwhile, He’s already told His disciples to jump into the boat and cross over to the other shore. Ever felt like that? You have this massive, powerful encounter with God – and then, all of a sudden, it’s as though He’s vanished.
We tend to forget that each miracle or grace we receive isn’t just there to make life comfortable. However amazing or desperately prayed for those gifts might be, they’re not meant to keep us fixed on ourselves. They’re meant to draw us closer to the One who gives them. God’s biggest concern is always our relationship with Him – a genuine friendship between Creator and creation. The miracle itself isn’t the final goal; it’s just one step on our journey home to the Father.
And here’s the comforting part: Jesus never leaves us stranded in the dark. He won’t sit back while the raging wind and crashing waves threaten to wreck our little boat. Instead, He comes strolling right across the water – even barefoot, if need be – to rescue us.
Lord, please help me never to doubt your saving power and constant care, especially when life feels stormy. Give me the courage to stand firm in faith and the grit to keep hoping, so I never lose my trust in you.