The promise "I am with you always"

The belief that Jesus is always near,

even in darkness, one is never truly alone.

Jesus is Always Near By. Jesus Loves Us

Our Lord Jesus, We have a devoted friend in Jesus.

 

＊＊＊ 1st Reading ＊＊＊     

Acts 6:1-7

In those days,

As the number of disciples grew, so-called Hellenists complained against the so-called Hebrews,

because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution.

So the Twelve summoned the whole body of disciples together, and said,

"It is not right, that we should neglect the word of God to serve at tables.

So, friends, choose from among yourselves seven respected men, full of Spirit and wisdom,

that we may appoint them to this task. As for us, we shall give ourselves to prayer,

and to the ministry of the word."

 

The whole community agreed; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit;

Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenus and Nicolaus of Antioch, who was a proselyte.

They presented these men to the apostles, who first prayed over them, and then laid hands upon them.

The word of God continued to spread, and the number of the disciples

in Jerusalem increased greatly; and even many priests accepted the faith.

 

Ps 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19

Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

＊＊＊ Gospel ＊＊＊      

John 6:16-21

When evening came, the disciples went down to the shore.

After a while, they got into a boat to make for Capernaum on the other side of the sea,

for it was now dark and Jesus had not yet come to them.

But the sea was getting rough because a strong wind was blowing.

They had rowed about three or four miles, when they saw Jesus walking on the sea,

and he was drawing near to the boat. They were frightened, but he said to them, "It is I! Don't be afraid!"

They wanted to take him into the boat, but immediately, the boat was at the shore to which they were going.

 

Gospel Reflection ：

Jesus is always near.

The disciples find themselves caught in a storm, battling the winds and waves in the darkness of night.

Amid their fear, Jesus approaches, walking on the water, and reassures them, "It is l; do not be afraid."

His presence calms the storm and their hearts,

demonstrating his divine authority over nature and deep care for his followers.

 

This is a reminder always to trust Jesus amid the storms of life.

Just as the disciples faced physical danger, we encountered trials that threatened

to overwhelm us – illness, loss, uncertainty, or fear. Yet, this story reminds us that Jesus is always near,

walking toward us in our moments of greatest need. His reassurance,

"It is I," calls us to place our faith in Him and not in our own efforts to weather the storm.

We are also called to be sources of comfort and hope for others,

embodying Christ's presence for those struggling in life's turbulent waters.