Fr Ed Homily 8-4-20

What Makes You Afraid?

In a raging storm, Peter got out of/stepped out of the boat. Before he got off/stepped out of the boat, he was focused on Jesus coming to the disciples, walking on the water. What a wondrous sight. Someone walking on water. It’s never been done before. It hasn’t been done again. If we saw Jesus walking on the water, coming to us, I am sure that our attention would be riveted on Jesus. Everything else around us would be forgotten. Peter had completely forgotten about the storm, the strong winds, the high waves. He was focused on Jesus.

Then he gets off of/steps out of the boat. It’s not long before his attention starts wandering, and suddenly he realizes the dire situation he is in. Any thoughts he had about Jesus are now completely gone. The emotion of fear overwhelms him. He is afraid and begins to sink.

Emotions try to take over our lives. Love is a wonderful emotion, but it also has a sense of fear. If I love someone, will they love me in return? Fear will prevent us from loving because then we cannot get hurt if we don’t show our love. Fear in time of war is necessary to give our senses a sharper awareness of our environment to protect us. Many people are afraid to speak in public. We’re afraid of getting sick. We’re afraid of death. And there are many other fears. But none of these fears should paralyze us or prevent us from living our lives. God sent His Son into the world so that we might have life and have it abundantly. Peter is a great example. If we focus on Jesus, we are not focused on our fears. If we focus on our fears, we cannot focus on Jesus.

Having an abundant life means that we live in this world even though we are not of this world. This means that we accept what God has given us and pray for wisdom and understanding to change what we can. And be at peace with what we can’t change. Look up the Prayer of Serenity. When you are afraid or overwhelmed, offer this prayer. Focus on what Jesus has for you.

May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.