March 28                                                                 Mark 6:47-56

The beginning of this portion is about when Jesus walked on the water.  Everyone remembers this part and discussions abound about whether it is factual or not.  Whether it is factual or not is not really important and when we dwell on this part, we forget the real message.  I don't have a problem with this, because I know if Jesus wanted to walk on water he could have.  He says to them, "Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid."  This is the part we must concentrate on. 

 In one of the Indiana Jones movies, they are at the edge of an enormous chasm.  The bottom is miles down and it is much too wide to jump over.  They are told if they begin to walk across, a ladder will appear.  But they must trust in the ladder appearing and if it doesn't they are of course dead.  So, they start across and the ladder appears.  We too must not be afraid and trust in Jesus in order to fully live into the Gospel.

In the next part, they come to land at Gennesaret and Jesus heals the many sick that are brought to him.  I think the same message applies here.  Jesus heals them because they are not afraid and trust that he will be able to heal them.

Of course this kind of trust isn't easy.  Even the disciples disappointed Jesus.  But it certainly has its rewards!

Donna Lancaster