St. Bede-St. Denis Parish Home

Dear brothers and sisters,

 

This week, I heard a news report warning of rising sadness in our society. The consequences of illness and changing lifestyles have resulted in a growing atmosphere of pessimism, fear, tension, broken relationships, and a loss of trust among people.

 

What once seemed like a calm lake has turned into a turbulent sea, lashed by winds that fill us with fear and dread. Today’s Gospel could not be more relevant. The storm endangers the disciples' lives, bringing their deepest, most intimate fears to the surface. Yet, in the midst of this hardship, Jesus leaves His prayer to come out and meet us. He walks toward us, calls us by name, and reaches out His hand, saying: "It is I; do not be afraid."

 

The storms that batter us are just as real as the presence of Jesus—who never abandons us to our fate—even though many fail to recognize Him amidst their struggles. Even those who once walked by His side may look away when life grows turbulent, forgetting that He remains there, extending His hand so we can hold fast and avoid sinking under the myriad reasons that might cause us to lose our hope and joy.

 

There is no shortage of gale-force winds threatening to rob us of our peace, but this Sunday reminds us that, if we know how to look, we can discover—amidst the rain and the storm—the serene face of Jesus walking toward us. He comes to take us firmly by the hand and help us persevere in our faith. Perhaps, as we read this Gospel today, our hope will be renewed, prompting us to ask if we have drifted too far from Him—and whether that is the reason life has become so much harder, sadder, and more complicated.

 

Happy Sunday!

 

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