Do not be Afraid – John 6:16-21 Reflection
I remember looking up how long and wide the Sea of Galilee was in my youth. I was surprised it was significantly smaller than I imagined and only 8 miles wide. With its pear-funneling shape, sudden, strong swirling winds often form, which is likely what happened with the disciples. The same miracle of Jesus calming their fears can occur when we turn to Jesus as we face difficult situations that seem large but may be smaller than we imagine. Sometimes, it seems everything gathered into our funnel wants to come out simultaneously, creating swirling disruptions in our thinking. Praying can have a calming effect and include transitioning from a fearful state of mind to clarity. Our individual transformation experiences can become a trusted expectation when we know we will hear Christ’s echo of “do not be afraid.”
Jesus Walks on the Sea James by Tissot.
The full-resolution painting and more details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Eastertide Reflections
John 6:16-21 – Scripture*
Jesus Walks on the Water
16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, 17 got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. 18 The sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing. 19 When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they were terrified. 20 But he said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” 21 Then they wanted to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the land toward which they were going.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on John 6:16-21 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 these types of 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 the young families of our communities experience your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible John 6 passage.
This site follows the guidelines for image web use at the websites of the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum.
Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Do not be Afraid
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Discussion group on St. John of the Cross.
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