First Reading: Gn 19:15-29; Psalm: 26. R. v. 3a; Gospel: Mt 8:23-27

FAITH IN TURBULENT MOMENTS

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

The reaction of the disciples in the gospel of today re-echoes how we often naturally slip into fear in moments of danger. When their boat was swamped by the waves, fear gripped them that they lost confidence in their faith in God. Jesus was disappointed that they came complaining to him instead of believing that he was in control of the situation even while asleep. And so he rebuked them saying; “Why are you afraid, O men of little faith?”

Whatever happened during the course of Jesus’ ministry happened for a purpose. The turbulence of the sea and the swamped boat was a sign to his disciples that their choice to follow him would be accompanied by turbulent and disquieting experiences of life that may even pose threats to their lives. And they can only withstand and overcome these experiences if they trusted in God and not allow themselves to be overwhelmed by their fears. They therefore needed to build their faith and trust in God in every situation.  

Just like the disciples, we are all in this boat together. Turbulence therefore is inevitable. But we should not allow this dampen our faith. At times, when we are burdened by the trials of life we worry more and hope less, think more and pray less, and depend more on ourselves than on God. But for every disciple of the faith, the reverse should be the case. At our trying moments, we need to worry less and hope more, think less and pray more and depend completely on God and not on ourselves. Remember, Christ is the captain of our ship. If we trusted in him, he will take control.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, may our faith and trust in you never wither. Amen.