In today’s gospel ( Mark 4:35-41), we hear the familiar story of Jesus and his disciples crossing the lake amidst a  violent storm that left the disciples cringing in fear for their lives.  The disciples’ reaction causes Jesus to remind them that he is always there for them and that we need only to believe this, that we only need to trust him.  Jesus seems to be saying that if we hold Jesus deep in our hearts and minds , if we believe in him and trust him, all else will follow – peace of mind, a humble disposition,  a compassionate and forgiving spirit, a way of life in accord with God’s desire for us.

This past week we heard of the tragedy in the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina.  And even in this tragedy, we see a remarkable example of the faith that Jesus speaks of.  We hear friends and relatives of the deceased, even amidst unimaginable shock and grief, retain a peaceful and humble disposition.  Rather than focusing on retribution and vengeance, they extend compassion and forgiveness to the shooter.  As they grieve, they demonstrate a way of life that we can imitate.  And as we follow their example – as we offer compassion and forgiveness to those who hurt us – we too live out that same faith in Jesus.

And maybe our faith is best revealed in our hope that even amidst a world where such unspeakable evil exists, we know that God’s love and goodness – and that of all humanity – will shine through in the end.  We go forth assured that God’s kingdom of love and justice will one day reach its fullness – the fullness that God promises.

We await that day. We work towards that day… with faith.