This reflection is based on Scripture at http://www.usccb.org/bible/matthew/14:22
With the pandemic that is effecting every part of society, I was thinking of the part of scripture where the disciples were on the boat during the storm, and Jesus starts walking towards them on the water. They were at first frightened and thought they were seeing a ghost. Jesus responds, "Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid." (Matthew 24:27)
During this "storm" of the coronavirus that's effecting our country and world, we need to reflect upon the fact that Jesus is present in this situation and is working though our health care providers to resolve this situation and to bring healing to all in our society. We are currently in the "waves" of the storm right now, and like Peter, are frightened by all that is going on because of this virus.
We need to, like Peter, reach out our hands towards Jesus in prayer and trust that he will pull us out of this storm, and to grant us, and all effected by the virus, healing and peace.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, we reach out to you, as Peter did, in our fear and ask for your help and healing in this time of need. We ask you to be with our health care providers and work through their minds and hands to resolve this issue and to bring healing to all those suffering as a result of this virus. We ask you to bring calm and peace to all who are frightened, and ask you to come upon all people to feel your loving presence during this time of need. Help us to truly believe you are the Son of God, and will bring us healing. Amen.
Very good. Amen. In times of anxiety I also think about the time there was a storm at sea while JESUS was asleep in the boat. The apostles were frightened & annoyed at JESUS, wondering how He could be asleep at such a time. They might not have expected a miracle but maybe help in hailing out the boat. When they woke JESUS up, He calmed the sea & the wind & said "Peace, be still", which could also mean "Peace, be muzzled" & asked them why they had been so fearful & had shown such little faith. So JESUS is still God & still present, even if we don't know what He is doing & might appear to he sleeping.
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