Memorial of Saint John Mary Vianney, priest
(Matthew 14:22-36)
George Bernanos’ novel Diary of a Country Priest portrays the life of St. John Vianney. Toward its conclusion, when the priest knows that his death is imminent, he says, “What does it matter, grace is everywhere.” His sanctity assures him that death is no obstacle for the grace of Christ. Rather, that grace will lift him through death like an airplane soaring through a dark cloud into the light of the stratosphere.
Jesus’ disciples in the boat being tossed about by the tempest have not fully learned about grace. Without Jesus physically present they fear that they will perish in the sea. Jesus is never far away, however, and his saving grace surrounds them. They must only trust in him like the sick coming to him for a cure. He is ready to save them.
Matthew, the evangelist, seems to have a symbolic intent in relating this episode. The disciples in a boat without Jesus present may be the Church after the resurrection, now as well as 1950 years ago. The darkness of night has always been associated with evil, and along with the turbulent waters it appears as death-dealing. Church-members must grasp the lesson of grace. We have only to trust in Christ, and his grace will see us through any turmoil.
