John 6:16–21 DO NOT BE AFRAID: IT IS I

Year A, Saturday of the Second Week of Easter

In today’s Gospel, the disciples find themselves in the middle of the sea as darkness

falls. The wind is strong, the waters are rough, and fear begins to take over. They are

struggling against the storm, doing everything they can, but it feels like they are not

getting anywhere.

This moment is very close to our own experience. Life often feels like this

sea—uncertain, unstable, and at times overwhelming. We try our best to move

forward, to manage our responsibilities, to hold things together, but there are

moments when we feel tired, afraid, and alone in the storm.

Then, in the midst of this fear, Jesus comes toward them, walking on the water. At

first, they are even more frightened because they do not recognize Him. But He

speaks words that change everything: “It is I. Do not be afraid.”

These words are not just a reassurance—they are a revelation. Jesus is not distant

from their struggle. He is present in it. He comes into their fear, not after the storm is

over, but right in the middle of it.

This is a powerful message for us. Faith does not always remove the storms of life,

but it assures us that we are never alone in them. Christ comes to us in our

confusion, in our anxiety, and in our struggles, and He says, “Do not be afraid.”

The Gospel also tells us that when Jesus gets into the boat, they immediately reach

their destination. His presence changes everything. What seemed impossible

becomes possible. What felt like delay becomes arrival.

Easter reminds us that the Risen Lord continues to come into the “boats” of our lives.

He does not wait for perfect conditions. He enters our storms, our fears, and our

uncertainties, and brings peace.

So the invitation today is simple: to recognize Him in the midst of our struggles and

to trust Him even when the waves are high.

Food for Thought: In what area of my life am I currently feeling overwhelmed, and

how can I invite Jesus into that “storm”?

With Love and Prayers

Your Co-Traveler

Father Leo