After the five thousand had eaten and were satisfied, Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side toward Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. And when he had taken leave of them, he went off to the mountain to pray. When it was evening, the boat was far out on the sea and he was alone on shore. Then he saw that they were tossed about while rowing, for the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them. But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out. They had all seen him and were terrified. But at once he spoke with them, “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!” He got into the boat with them and the wind died down. They were completely astounded. They had not understood the incident of the loaves. On the contrary, their hearts were hardened.
REFLECTION:
the fourth watch of the night
To build up the Kingdom of God, one does not need money to buy or build, be entanlged in deals nor bargains. His love will come to perfection in us if we invite Him to join us in our problems and to grow in us.
Today, we meet Jesus and the disciples. After the five thousand were fed, He made the disciples get into the boat and go to Bethsaida. He went off to pray. In the evening Jesus saw them from the shore being tossed around by the rough winds. About the fourth watch, (around 3-6 am), Jesus was walking passed them, but terrified, they cried out to Him. When called, He at once came toward them and said, "Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!"
Jesus teaches us that He is always with us. He knows everything that goes on in our lives and when we need help.
All this happened during the night between 3-6 am. The fourth watch is intriguing. Many say it is the most powerful time to be praying. Miracles happen, battles are won. The exodus from Egypt happened at this time. (Exodus 12 and 14) Jacob wrestled with the angel til dawn ( Genesis 32:26) These moments might be God's call to find peace in Him and do something profound. Listen to God whenever He calls. Do not check out social media when up in the middle of the night.
God visits His angelic ones especially when we are in the dark, no one in sight and fear surrounds us in the storm of our lives. Recognize the importance of this time. See it as an opportunity for divine encounter. Pray fervently against the enemy. The enemy is always seeking to disrupt God's plans, especially when we are alone, isolated and tired. The enemy came and sowed weeds while everyone was sleeping. (Matthew 13: 25)
If you wake during the fourth watch, listen to God, be open and align yourself with a profound spiritual experience. If you awake at the fourth hour, respond to God's calling. He will be with you and together His love will become perfection in you. Use this time to be in fellowship with God. Invite Him to be with you. Listen to Him.
Jesus always talked to God in the early morning, join Him in prayer. Open your ears to hear Him clearly.
Comments