From the responsorial psalm: “See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, To deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (Jn 6:16-21)
Continuing where yesterday’s Gospel left off, today’s reading describes what happens after Jesus fed the five thousand and then went off to the mountain alone. John describes how the disciples went down to the sea to reach Capernaum. Within moments after embarking, a strong wind stirs up the sea and they see Jesus walking on the sea toward them. Until he says to them, “It is I. Do not be afraid,” the disciples fail to recognize Jesus. They wish to take Jesus into the boat, but they reach the shore immediately. Two miracles—really three—occur as the Gospel unfolds: Jesus walks on water, the disciples reach the shore without human effort, and they recognize the divinity of Jesus in the peace that only he can give.
God, I am certain of the myriad uncertainties I will face today. In the midst of them, give me the grace to call to mind that Jesus your Son is present at all times. Help me trust that as much as uncertainty and fear will be woven into the day, “all your works,” as the psalmist says, “are trustworthy” and preserve me in every trial. “Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.” Jesus, I trust in you.