Gospel of Mark 6:45-52
"After the five thousand had eaten and were satisfied, Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side toward Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. And when had taken leave of them, he went off to the mountain to pray. When it was evening, the boat was far out on the sea and he was alone on the shore. Then he saw that they were tossed about while rowing,for the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them. But when they saw him walking on the sea they thought is was a ghost and cried out. "Take courage, it is I. do not be afraid." He got in the boat and the wind died down. They were completely astounded. They had not understood the incident of the loaves. On the contrary, their hearts were hardened."
What can be made of this?
Why is it that the hearts of the disciples became hard?
One thought has popped into my head, Jealousy. And confusion.
This band of travelers and friends meet this guy who is only 30 years old. To some of the followers of Jesus they may have thought that he was just young and arrogant.
But I'm sure some were indeed jealous.
In my own life I get angry when someone (especially fellow writers) can sit down and write effortlessly. I applaud their gift but then get into a brief depression because I often struggle to write a single well written paragraph.
So now put yourself in the mind of the disciples.
They're hanging out with Jesus. He effortlessly heals the sick, cast out demons, and take a small amount of food and feed 5,000 people just by praying. Now this guy can walk on water and calm the storm?
Some might say Jesus was a show off.
How can a mortal man do such things?
Think about the account of Peter walking on the water to meet Jesus. But when he sees a huge wave and takes his eyes off of Jesus, Peter begins to drown.
Have you ever thought that you don't measure up to God. Truth is you never will.
But there's good news.
Chances are you'll never walk on water but you may save a life as a skilled surgeon.
Your kindness toward a beggar may give the person who has next to nothing a new spark of hope.
As a counselor in Substance Abuse Counseling I hope to reach at least one person to never again pick up their drug of choice.
Your prayers will show a desperate person that in deed God not only exists. He is in the miracle business and above all he loves us.
Let go. Let God.
And may you be filled with the spirit of understanding that comes from knowing the creator who is the author and finisher of our faith.
