Fr Paul reads from the Gospel of John (6: 16-21) in which the disciples, as they travel by boat towards Capernaum, endure rough seas and encounter Jesus walking on the water towards them.

Fr Paul says this episode of Jesus walking on the water towards the boat is also found in Mark and Matthew’s gospels.

As we hear, the disciples are rowing, and the sea and the wind are making things difficult.  They are struggling and Jesus comes as if to rescue them. As we hear, the disciples are afraid. Jesus calms them by identifying himself…’It is I, do not be afraid’. The divine nature of Jesus is strongly implied, walking on the water and helping them arrive safely at their destination.

The lesson of this Gospel, says Fr Paul, is that Jesus does the same with us; when we experience difficulties and troubles in our lives, he is there to help us and keep us safe.