Jesus walks on the water: Mark 6:45-52
Imaginative Contemplation
Life does not stand still. The consequences of the feeding of so many people with so little had made a deep impression on the crowd. There was a danger that they would try to force Jesus into a position that he did not want to take. Some people in the crowd were trying to influence the disciples. Jesus needed to get the disciples out of the way quickly, so he sent them off across the lake.
After Jesus had dismissed the crowd, he went to a quiet place for prayer. What was his prayer about?
Jesus knew the boat was in trouble. How did he react?
The disciples sensed a powerful presence and saw a figure walking on the water. Why were they terrified?
What was Jesus’ message to them?
Why did the wind drop?
How did the disciples react when they recognised the Lord and experienced the calming of the storm?
Enter into the scene
After Jesus had fed all those people, the crowd recognised that something miraculous had taken place, and they were filled with awe as they looked at Jesus and his companions. Jesus foresaw the danger for himself and his friends . The praise of the crowd was a potential problem. With the same authority that had multiplied the food, Jesus directed the Apostles to row across the Lake while he dismissed the crowd, moving them on until he was alone. In the calm of the night on the lonely hill, he reviewed the day and rested.
In the early hours of the morning, Jesus realised that the Apostles were struggling against a strong wind, so he came to them, walking across the water. Fearful of this apparition, they panicked. Jesus shouted across the waves as he neared the boat. ‘Courage! It is I, Jesus!’ HE got into the boat, and the wind dropped. How amazed the Apostles were!
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
What happens when people are praised too much?
Our Media often act out of ‘Tall Poppy Syndrome. Do I take part in this?
Why did Jesus send the Apostles away?
In the evening, do I have the habit of reviewing my day to see where God has been at work in me?
What is the ‘strong wind’ in my life at present?
Do I see things that terrify me? Do I take the time to examine them more carefully?
Can I trust that when God is with me, all will be well? Do I trust that God is always with me, even when I cannot see him
Prayer
Lord, teach me to trust in your constant presence. When I am praised for my work for you, may I respond that it is to you that honour and glory is due. Calm my fears. Bring me to a deep trust in your loving presence. Amen..