boat-people
"They wanted to take Him into the boat." —John 6:21
Before Jesus gets into the boat, it is dark (Jn 6:16) "with a strong wind blowing" (Jn 6:18) and the sea "becoming rough" (Jn 6:18). The rowing is difficult, and progress is slow. But when we see the risen Jesus and want "to take Him into the boat" (Jn 6:21), suddenly we cover miles and reach our destination (Jn 6:21).
Do you want Jesus into the boat of your life? If you do, you must give your life to Him and let it be done unto you according to God's word (Lk 1:38). You must lose your life in order for Jesus to come into your life and save it (Lk 9:24). When you let Jesus into your life, you will carry His cross daily (Lk 9:23).
However, the yoke of His cross is surprisingly easy and light (Mt 11:30). With Jesus in your life, you will not continue to go around in circles; instead, you will get somewhere. Where you have made little progress, you will make great progress — even quickly. When we invite Jesus to get into the boat, our lives change, and the world changes. Do you see Jesus "walking on the water"? (Jn 6:19) Invite Jesus in.
Prayer: Jesus, without You I can do nothing (Jn 15:5).
Promise: "The word of God continued to spread, while at the same time the number of the disciples in Jerusalem enormously increased. There were many priests among those who embraced the faith." —Acts 6:7
Praise: St. Peter was sent to the ends of the earth and was martyred in the New Hebrides.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order Fr. Lauer's tape on Developing a Deep Personal Relationship with Jesus on audio AV52-1 or video V-52.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, December 9, 2000
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 12, 2000