Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you. — Psalm 33:22

Mass readings: Acts 6:1-7 / John 6:16-21 

Our Anchor 

When my brother and I were traveling through Europe as backpackers, we took a ferry from Ireland to England. Born and raised in the Midwest, we were genuine landlubbers. The only sea we had ever traversed was a sea of corn. It was a rough crossing. As the boat teetered and rocked in the endless waves we became nauseous. Even worse was my mental state. I felt trapped. It was one of those situations where fear rose up and made it hard to breathe. So I prayed. 

In today’s Gospel Jesus walks on the sea amid a strong wind as His disciples cower in fear. Life is full of rough patches. It tosses us about and threatens us. Our refuge is the Lord. He alone can calm our fears and deliver us from evil. 

Prayer: Lord, steady me and help me feel Your presence during difficult times.