＊＊＊ 1st Reading ＊＊＊

Acts 6:1-7

In those days, as the number of disciples grew,

The 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 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 Me; 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：

Every time Jesus appears, He always dispels our fears. That is why spiritual masters always point out that peace, which is a condition where nothing unsettles, is a sure sign of God’s presence.

In this gospel, Jesus calms all that terrorizes the disciples. The chaos around subsided, and the flimsy boat that carries them on the turbulent waters suddenly docked ashore. Our journey in life may be sometimes rough and laden with terror.

But Jesus comes at a proper time to help us reach the safety of the shores if we but allow Him.