The Gospel for the Ninth Sunday after Pentecost this year is Mark 6:45-56. The passage has two distinct sections. There is the account of Jesus walking on water and an account of healings in Gennesaret, across the Sea of Galilee from Jewish Galilee. In differing ways, both accounts point to the divine nature and ministry of Jesus the Christ. Briefly, I would focus on the miracle of Jesus walking on the water.
The disciples are in a boat on the great lake, and in the winds, they have trouble crossing. In the wee hours of the morning, Jesus comes walking on the water. At first, they don't recognize Him and cry out in fear, Then, He enters the boat, and the winds subside. The disciples are astounded because they still do not understand who He really is. They have seen numerous miracles, including the miracle of the loaves and fish, but they still do not "get it." They have not really acknowledged even to themselves that Jesus is unique. He is more than just a great prophet, teacher, and healer. He is God present with them. He is Lord over nature and natural law. The disciples still need to grow in faith.
Down through the ages, many Christians have been and still are like those hesitant and fearful disciples. We still need to grow in our understanding of Jesus. It is good to appreciate His prophetic words and teachings. It is right to acknowledge His healing power and His compassionate feeding of the hungry. However, such affirmations are only a beginning. True disciples must trust in His higher and deeper identity. Jesus Christ is God present with us. He is ruler over all nature, and He is Lord of our lives! And He can do things that our worldly minds consider impossible!
No comments:
Post a Comment