As we know, life can be viewed as journey, or still better, as a voyage. Seeing it as a voyage acknowledges that we are sometimes driven by forces more powerful than ourselves, like the wind and the waves. In a poetic sense, we sail upon a rippling surface of events, feeling the joy of movement, being alive, and going somewhere. When things go well, we feel the contentment; when they do not go well, we panic and grow distressed.
The Apostles in this weekend’s Gospel (Matthew 14, 22-33) were on their way home across the quiet Sea (or Lake) of Galilee. But then a mighty storm came up. A gale blew up and dramatically changed their mood – they felt in danger and they feared of drowning. Our own “life-voyage” has its share of storms too: anxieties, problems, and pressures of various kinds. How often does a sudden turn of events challenge us to our core and rob us of our inner peace?
Worth considering before we come to Mass this weekend: Are we on a charted course, or just drifting along without any determined direction? Do we find it hard to stay afloat? Are we weighed down by the bewildering and ever-changing times in which we live? Are we ill-at-ease in our relationships with others, discontented and insecure in ourselves? All of this is exactly what the Apostles experienced in their storm, being tossed about in the waves. And yet, they discovered the Lord there! Jesus came to rescue them, to reassure them, and to restore their peace. Are we ready for Him to do the same for us?
