Do not be Afraid – Reflection on Mark 6:45-52
When a personal miracle happens, time seems to ground the experience while also making it seem less than it was. We believed sincerely in that beautiful moment and then drifted away from the brief reality. When you get a chance, recall one of these moments. You may find it takes effort to remember the details. Human intellect, worldliness, and forces other than God tend to harden our hearts. However, if the majority is intact, then it is as it was. This is why our relationship with God requires consistent vigilance in prayer for understanding and joy. When your heart is open to the wonder and beauty of God, do not be afraid when participating in situations of active grace.
Jesus Walks on the Sea by James Tissot (full resolution image of painting).
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum Website.
Additional Christmastide Reflections
Mark 6:45-52 – Scripture*
Jesus Walks on the Water
45 Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After saying farewell to them, he went up on the mountain to pray.
47 When evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. 48 When he saw that they were straining at the oars against an adverse wind, he came towards them early in the morning, walking on the sea. He intended to pass them by. 49 But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out; 50 for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” 51 Then he got into the boat with them and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded, 52 for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Mark 6:45-52 Reflection – Do not be Afraid.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate your expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let our communities’ young families experience your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions. Amen
Attributions
* This site has written permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible for the passage of Mark 6
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Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Do not be Afraid
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