Homily Feast of Andre Bessette (Mk. 6:45-52)
Homily Feast of Andre Bessette (Mk. 6:45-52)
January 6th has been the traditional day when the church has celebrated the Feast of the Epiphany. Epiphany means manifestation. We could look at it as the “Aha moments” we have in our life. At those times, maybe we understand something for the first time, or someone enlightens us with their words or actions.
During these days after the Feast of the Epiphany we have a series of miracle stories from the Gospels. Yesterday we had the story of the multiplication of the loaves. Today we have the story of the calming of the sea.
The disciples are riding along in their boat on the Sea of Galilee. Perhaps they were discussing the miracle they had just witnessed when the multitudes were fed. The apostles could have been eating a little of bread that was left over. Perhaps there was an argument about just exactly who Jesus was.
As the disciples of Jesus were trying to sort things out a storm blew up. We are told this was at night. The boat seems to be in danger of being swamped. Jesus is not in the boat. He has stayed behind. Suddenly, the Apostles see Jesus walking to them across the water. It had to be disconcerting.
Jesus climbs into the boat with them. When he does, the danger passes and the winds die down. Most significantly he says, “Do not be afraid.” How often have we heard those words the last few weeks as we have read the Infancy Narratives? We see that is a constant mantra throughout our Lord’s life.
At that moment this all happens we can imagine the disciples coming to understand. If they had doubts before, some of those doubts must have been wiped away. Maybe they were not so afraid anymore.
Reflection Questions:
- Have I ever had a moment in my life when I had an unexpected insight about the Lord? When was that and what happened?
- Does hearing the words from angels and from Jesus “do not be afraid” give me a sense of calm today? What am I most afraid of?
Dear Parishioners,
I received word today that we are only short of our ADA goal by about seven thousand dollars. This is truly good news. If we make this goal it will be the first time this has happened in many a year. If you have not gotten your pledge in, please take a moment to do so.
Our new living space continues to take shape in the Lee Center. We are now painting walls. That sounds like we are getting close, but not really. We still need to put in ceilings, floors, electrical fixtures, etc. We still hope to be moving the first part of February.
The ice and snow are testing the ancient roof in our present rectory. We need some dry weather, so Fr. Matthew does not have to find more buckets.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark
P.S. This Friday’s Mass will be at 8 a.m.