MONTHLY DEVOTIONAL FOR 18 APRIL
April 18, 2026
FEAST OF SAINT ALPHEGE OF CANTERBURY – 19th APRIL
April 19, 2026
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
18 APRIL, 2026
Jn 6:16-21
When it was evening, the disciples of Jesus went down to the sea,
embarked in a boat, and went across the sea to Capernaum.
It had already grown dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them.
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.”
They wanted to take him into the boat,
but the boat immediately arrived at the shore
to which they were heading.
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
In this passage, the disciples are caught in darkness, battling strong winds and rough waters. Jesus is not physically with them at first, and fear begins to take hold. It is a familiar human experience—to feel alone when circumstances grow difficult, to struggle when life seems uncertain and beyond control.
Yet, in the midst of their fear, Jesus comes to them, walking on the very waves that threaten them. What appears overwhelming to the disciples is completely under His authority. His words, “It is I; do not be afraid,” are not just reassurance but a revelation of His divine presence. He does not always remove the storm immediately, but He enters into it with us.
The moment they welcome Him into the boat, everything changes. The journey that seemed long and dangerous suddenly reaches its destination. This reminds us that peace is not found in the absence of storms, but in the presence of Christ. When we invite Him into our struggles, He brings calm, direction, and purpose.
This Gospel calls us to trust, even when we cannot see clearly, and to recognize that Jesus is never far away—especially in moments of fear and uncertainty.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, when the winds of life grow strong and my heart is troubled, help me to remember that You are near. In moments when I feel alone or afraid, give me the grace to hear Your voice saying, “Do not be afraid.”
Teach me to trust You more deeply, even when I cannot understand what is happening around me. Walk with me through every storm, and give me the courage to welcome You into every area of my life. Bring Your peace into my heart, calm my fears, and guide me safely to where You want me to be. Amen
