Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint 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 he 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 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 it was a ghost and cried out.
They had all seen him and were terrified.
But at once he spoke with them,
“Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!”
He got into the boat with them 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.
Go out and help
1. A human Jesus. The gospel starts by showing Jesus with very relatable, simple, and human attitudes. These are things you and I can easily do. It’s not about performing big miracles or great deeds. Jesus dismisses the people, makes sure they’re satisfied, and sends the apostles on their way. Simple things like making your guests feel comfortable in your home, checking in on your loved ones, asking how they’re doing—maybe you’ve forgotten about these little things. It’s also about answering the phone kindly, replying to a WhatsApp message instead of leaving it on read, inviting a friend who’s having a hard time over for dinner, coffee, or just to hang out. Simple actions, but that mean a lot.
2. Pray. I really want to stress this. Don’t give up on prayer, protect your time alone to pray—even if it’s just ten minutes to listen to a meditation, read the gospel, or talk to God in your own way. That’s where you’ll find the strength that only He can give. Your life and mine are like trees: the stronger the roots, the taller they grow and the more fruit they bear. Let your roots be those powerful moments of prayer.
3. Tossed about. God never leaves you alone. He’s always by your side, even when you feel like everything is falling apart. Don’t be afraid, because calm comes when you let Him into your life. The apostles did everything possible to stay afloat, but God did the impossible to keep them going. In your own life, do everything you can to stay happy, and God will do the impossible to help you be happy. Just remember one thing: let Him into your life.
Always remember that something good is on the way!
God bless you and be with you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
