Gospel Reflection for Saturday, February 1, 2025

febrero 1, 2025

One of the most repeated phrases in the Bible is: “Do not be afraid.” The disciples, who were experienced sailors, found themselves threatened by violent, stormy winds. When they felt completely overwhelmed—filled with fear, helplessness, and despair—they reproached Jesus for His seeming indifference. At that moment, with a commanding gesture, Jesus rebuked the forces of evil, silencing them and restoring calm. No evil can withstand Jesus. With just His word, He reveals Himself as the master of mysterious forces, the one in control. Jesus asks them, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

How often does it feel like Jesus is asleep when life becomes complicated, when we are afraid, or when pain shakes our boat? The winds that lash the sea of this world are many: the power of the powerful, the wealth of the rich, wars between nations. We might ask ourselves: Why are we so paralyzed by fear? Why so many doubts and hesitations among Christians? Are we lacking trust in the Father? Even when it seems like He is asleep, Jesus never abandons His own.

With gratitude,

Salvador León, C.M.F.