DO NOT BE AFRAID BUT ABIDE IN GOD’S LOVE FOR HE IS WITH US

 Wednesday After the Epiphany of the Lord, 6th January, 2021

Readings: 1 John 4:11-18, Ps.72,  Mark 6:45-52

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Emenike Onyia.

DO NOT BE AFRAID BUT ABIDE IN GOD’S LOVE FOR HE IS WITH US 

Those who are into sea business such as the fisher men and the marine men know what it is to be on the sea with heavy storms. A condition where the need to look for a Saviour is highly expected. Such was the case with the disciples of Jesus in the Gospel passage today. It is a story about panic. With the waves breaking over the boat, the disciples cannot believe that the Lord has seen them, and is approaching. Hence, they were afraid and needed help from anywhere. It was at this point that they saw Jesus walking on the sea and he said to them: “take courage, it is I, do not be afraid”. 

This story signifies God's chosen people on a transit of faith, frightened by the guilt of sin and wounded by the waves of the sea, the abode of evil forces and monsters of this world. The boat can be taken as a symbol of the young Christian Church struggling with the world’s principalities and powers, while the storm is a symbol of persecution suffered by this young Christian community. However, John in our first reading tells us that God abides in us and his love is perfected in us, for there is no fear in love but perfect love casts out fear. Thus, Jesus says: "Do not be afraid".

Dear friends, Jesus is calling us today to journey on his boat of life with an unwavering faith and a repented heart because, the world is being tossed around by the waves of evil forces, the enemies of humankind. And it is only God can subdue it, for he has promised to restore us back to himself. 

Therefore, I don't know the great storms of doubt and fear in your soul, as a result of the power of the evil forces of this world? All I know is that with great faith in God, the words of Jesus: “take courage, it is I,” will surely resound in the hearts of all us and all Christians who live in an indifferent or hostile community.

LET US PRAY: Lord God, as we abide in your love, may your presence cast out every forms of fear in us, so that the violent storms and waves of bondage in our lives will end in a wonderful calm that brings peace to our souls. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. Wishing you the best of God’s favour today and always.