Fr. David Gunter, MIC, reflects on Jesus withdrawing by boat to pray amid chaos and violence. Christ shows us that, when we face fear, loneliness, confusion, or uncertainty, we should seek quiet time with God rather than allow fear to control us. This message is especially important today, when many people are anxious about prophecies, testimonies, and events in the world. Jesus does not want us to live in fear. He calls us to prayer and asks us to seek the Holy Spirit’s gift of discernment; the Spirit of Truth, so that we may recognize and follow the will of the Father. We should invite the Holy Spirit into our hearts, remain close to the Blessed Mother, and be cautious of movements that ignore the Holy Spirit or place themselves above God’s will. Through prayer, discernment, and preparation of heart, we become ready to receive the fire of Christ’s love: “I came to cast fire upon the earth.” Readings for August 3rd. 2026: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/080326.cfm © 2026 Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. All rights reserved.