Tuesday July 4, 2023

Matthew 8:23-27

Jesus got into the boat followed by his disciples. Without warning a storm broke over the lake, so violent that the waves were breaking right over the boat. But he was asleep.

A very happy Independence Day to you my friends. It is wonderful to be back in Louisville after our family reunion in Damascus West Virginia. I like road trips and I like when I am back in my bed. It was great fun and absolutely beautiful to see how the family is growing. I hope you enjoy your family today and true American freedom.

If you remember when we read the gospel of Mark, he always seemed to be in a hurry. For example St Mark used the word “immediately” a lot. So we expect sudden movements and turns in his writings. St Matthew is a little calculated. So I am a little surprised that there is this element of surprise that we find in today’s reading. Without warning a storm broke over the lake… Have you ever been thrown a curveball? Has the future ever suddenly changed for you? See how Jesus still maintains his peace and is sound asleep. Today we want to pray for all those who panic. Find a way to be prepared for the sudden changes. Or maybe teach us how you calm yourselves during a panic attack. You have obviously have had a few and lived through them. Your method could be answer and help to someone who suddenly finds themselves in a storm. How many times have you heard the expression “we never saw it coming.” Well for the most part… that is life.