Tuesday 3 August 2021

Today is Tuesday the 3 August in the Eighteenth week of Ordinary time.

Sayen Alana sings, ‘Be Still My Soul’.

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.

Matthew 14:22-33

Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds.  And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them.  And early in the morning he came walking toward them on the sea.  But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out in fear.  But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, "Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid."  Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you  on the water."  He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus.  But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!"  Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?"  When they got into the boat, the wind ceased.  And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."

Jesus comes to his friends as they battle against a storm.  They are afraid.  Perhaps it’s their fear that prevents them from seeing Jesus.  Are there fears that affect you at the moment? 

How might God be seeking to show his love for you at this time? We see Jesus calling to Peter, ‘Come’, and as Peter loses heart, he reaches out his hand to save him.  Imagine what love Jesus feels for Peter –how might he then be feeling towards you?

As you listen to the reading again, just allow the scene to play out before your eyes, enter into the drama of the storm, and feel what Peter must feel as he recognises Jesus and takes the risk to step towards him.

Whatever time of day or night it is, Jesus is always there inviting us to trust him more. How do you wish to respond to his invitation, ‘Come’?  Take a moment now to share with him whatever is in your heart.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.