Other Boats were with Him
Recently one of the members of our Life Transitions group, that meet weekly to reflect on navigating changes in our lives, pointed out to us that we never make journeys to the other side without being accompanied by others. When I read the line in this week’s Gospel Mark 4: 36 ‘And other boats were with him’ I recognized it as a confirmation of his insight.
The sentence is dropped there with no further reference to these ‘other boats’ or their passengers in the ensuing drama. Isn’t it like that in life? I think of a married couple always arguing, saying hurtful words to each other with no concern of the impact on the children. They are the other boats on the journey to the other side. They suffer their trauma unobserved.
The other boats are the weak ones, the marginalized, those whose stories are not told but who suffer silently on the journey. I think of families, communities, nations and the world, and the journeys we are making. We read about the leaders and what they have to say on the journey, what they decide on Ukraine, Gaza, Climate Change and Economies, but the pain of those suffering are hardly heard.
I think of Pope Francis and his concern for the migrants, a new sign of the times, while the world journeys on to Artificial Intelligence. The migrants are the other boats travelling with Jesus and with us. They are moving like in biblical times once again to no fault of their own. They are journeying because of climate change, wars, trafficking, economic hardships and like the other boats their stories are not told.
This insight into the 'other boats' serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of our journeys. Often, the focus is on the prominent figures and main events, overshadowing the silent companions whose lives are equally impacted. Just as in the Gospel, where the other boats receive no further mention, in life, many individuals and groups navigate their own storms without recognition.
Pope Francis’s advocacy for migrants highlights this disparity, urging us to acknowledge and address the silent suffering accompanying our advancements and decisions. Our journeys to the other side are not solitary; they are shared with many unseen companions whose stories are just as vital.
To make a difference, we must begin by acknowledging the 'other boats' in our lives and communities. By actively listening to and amplifying the voices of the marginalized, we can bring their stories into the light. Simple acts of empathy, support, and advocacy can create ripples of change. Whether through volunteering, raising awareness, or influencing policy, each of us has the power to contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world. Together, we can ensure that no journey is made alone and that every story is heard.
Isn’t this the meaning of synodality?
NOTICE BOARD
If you enjoy reading my Lectio Divina newsletter probably you would enjoy the interactive Biblical Reading Program, where at present we reflect on the 2nd Reading of weekend Masses, usually one of the Letters of St Paul. This week we discuss 2 Corinthians Chapter 5. You can join at the link below.