Wednesday after Epiphany
Mark 6:45-52
The Boat of the Church in the Storm
In today’s Gospel, Jesus walks on water towards his disciples, who are struggling against the wind and waves in a boat. This powerful scene invites us to reflect on the trials of the Church and our personal lives, where we often feel tossed about by turbulence and fear.
The boat symbolises the Church navigating the often-hostile seas of the world. From scandals and persecutions to hatred and division, the Church is not immune to storms. Yet, the Gospel reminds us that the boat of the Church cannot sink because Jesus is always present, even if unseen. His reassuring words, “It is I, do not be afraid,” echo through every era, bringing hope to believers facing darkness and despair.
Mark’s account holds rich symbolism. Written for early Christians under persecution in Rome, the imagery of Jesus walking on water—mastering the sea, the abode of evil in biblical thought—proclaims Christ’s victory over all forces of darkness. The storm may rage, but the Church remains secure under his protection.
The sequence of events provides a deeper spiritual meaning. After feeding the multitude, Jesus retreats to the mountain while the disciples are sent onto the sea without him. This reflects the Church’s mission after Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension. Though no longer physically present, Jesus equips his disciples through the Eucharist and remains spiritually with them, even in life’s fiercest storms.
When scandals, daily struggles, or personal failures threaten to overwhelm us, we too must look for Christ walking towards us, speaking words of peace and courage. His presence assures us that no storm, no wave, no darkness can separate us from his love. Let us trust that the boat of our faith, though battered, will never sink, for Christ is always with us. “Take courage. It is I. Do not be afraid.”
© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025
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