Reflection by Ron McKean

Faith.  The biblical definition of faith is trusting in something you cannot explicitly prove.  It implies absolute certainty where there is no evidence or truth.  Scientific research shows that our brains are hardwired to trust others.  It is built into our DNA.  Trusting in one another is in our best interest, especially in times of risk and uncertainty.  This miracle on the sea illustrates Jesus revealing himself to his disciples.  Amid chaos and confusion, Jesus appeared and commanded Peter to cross the sea toward Jesus.  Though Peter attempted to go to Jesus, his fear and doubt took over and he began to sink until Jesus stretched out his hand to Peter and caught him, bringing him safely back into the boat.  As Catholics and true believers, our dependence and reliance on Jesus are rudimentary and at the core of our faith.  Jesus is the center and model for our daily lives.  I remind myself to trust Jesus always, not just when convenient and easy.  Many times it is difficult to keep Jesus in the forefront of our minds when life is unpredictable and full of obstacles, setbacks and ambiguities.  I find myself abandoning my trust in Jesus and instead, focusing and relying on my own mortal elucidations and solutions.  Human fallibility is the bane of our existence.  Jesus is the answer and direct response to our humanness.  He is the hope of our salvation and our path to eternal life.