Dear St. Charles Parishioners,
Saint Augustine of Hippo said, "Trust the past to God's mercy, the present to God's love, and the future to God's providence.”
This Sunday’s readings invite us to contemplate the profound mystery of God’s power and our call to trust in His providence. The central theme revolves around faith amidst life’s storms, drawing us closer to the unwavering presence of God.
In the Gospel of Mark (4:35-41), we encounter the familiar yet ever-relevant story of Jesus calming the storm. As Jesus and His disciples cross the Sea of Galilee, a fierce storm arises, threatening their safety. The disciples, seasoned fishermen accustomed to the lake’s unpredictability, are terrified. In contrast, Jesus is asleep, untroubled by the chaos around Him. Their desperate plea, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” resonates with anyone who has felt overwhelmed by life’s challenges.
Jesus’ response is both powerful and gentle. He rebukes the wind and commands the sea to be still, and a great calm ensues. Turning to His disciples, He asks, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” This question echoes through the ages, challenging us to reflect on our own faith. Do we trust in God’s presence and power, even when the storms of life threaten to engulf us?
To read my complete article and to be the first to read our bulletin for this coming weekend, click HERE.
God Bless,
--- Fr. Augustine Joseph