Select from Among You

Select from Among You

April 13, 2013

Saturday of the Second Week of Easter

As the number of disciples continued to grow, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution.  So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table.  Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task,
whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”  Acts 6:1-4

The sea was stirred up because a strong wind was blowing.  When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they began to be afraid.  But he said to them, “It is I. Do not be afraid.”  John 6:18-20

Piety

Suscipe by St. Ignatius of Loyola:  Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will, All I have and call my own.  You have given all to me.  To you, Lord, I return it.  Everything is yours; do with it what you will.  Give me only your love and your grace, that is enough for me.  Amen

Study

What do we need and from where do we get that?  Today's readings provide to us two clues.

We get what we need from the community and from the Lord.  In the communitarian reality of the early church, when the needs of all, especially the widows, were not being met, the community decided that it needed some special servers to accommodate all.  Thus, we hear the recount today of the creation of the office of the deacon.  Their assistance would enable the Twelve to focus on their mission to proclaim the word of God.  So, our physical needs can be met through community action.

But our needs go beyond that.  In the Good News, the disciples have been rowing in rough seas for miles.  Despite being experienced fishermen, they were gripped in fear -- fear that only increased when they witnessed the miraculous sign of Jesus walking across the Sea of Galilee toward their boat.  This encounter with Jesus in the present moment and a few words not only calmed the seas, but also put the emotional distress that the disciples were experiencing to rest.  Our emotional needs can be met by turning over our distress to the Lord.

Action

What needs do you have today?  Are you looking to fix up your house?  Do you want to get into a new academic program?  Are you or a family member confronting some health issue?  Turn over these signs of distress to the Lord and rely upon Him and your community to assist you.