In this passage, the disciples are caught in a terrifying storm, overwhelmed by fear and doubt.
Despite being in Jesus’ presence, they feel abandoned and helpless as the waves crash around them.
Last Friday, while reflecting on the Gospel, I struggled with its interpretation.
Then I came across a YouTube clip about the new movie, Inside Out 2.
This movie, as I discovered, has a profound connection to the Gospel and its teachings.
For those unfamiliar, Inside Out is a movie about a child's emotions — joy, sadness, anger, fear and disgust — navigating the complexities of her life changes when her family moves to a new city, leading to an internal struggle to maintain her happiness.
In the trailer for Inside Out 2, a new character, Anxiety, intrigued me.
So, I decided to watch the movie at Paramount Cinema to better understand its themes.
Without spoiling anything for those still planning to watch the movie, Inside Out 2 portrays anxiety as significant for Riley as she faces new challenges, especially when she turns 13.
The movie shows how anxiety, while sometimes overwhelming, also helps protect Riley by making her cautious.
The movie explores how anxiety interacts with other emotions and influences Riley’s thoughts and actions.
It teaches us the importance of understanding and accepting anxiety instead of ignoring it.
Inside Out 2 helps us see how anxiety plays a role in our lives.
Isn't this a reflection of our own lives?
We face our own storms — whether they are financial struggles, health issues, job losses, or personal failures.
These challenges can make us feel like we are drowning, like there is no hope.
In today’s Gospel, we see the disciples caught in a storm, feeling hopeless and afraid.
Like the disciples, we often forget God’s power and feel lost.
However, Jesus calms the storm with a simple command, showing His divine authority and reminding us that He is always in control.
Similarly, in Inside Out 2 Riley’s anxiety is not eradicated, but it is managed through faith and trust in her emotions, just as we can manage our anxieties through faith in God’s power and presence.
Similarly, in Inside Out 2, Riley’s anxiety helps her navigate life’s challenges.
Both the Gospel and the movie teach us that while anxiety is normal, we can find peace in trusting God’s power and presence.
Fr Novelito Lim
St Mary’s Catholic Parish
4°C