GOD’S WORD FOR THE DAY (based on Catholic Liturgical Readings)
DATE: 2ND AUGUST 2016
TUESDAY OF THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
1ST READING: Jeremiah 30:1-2, 12-15, 18-22
PSALM: Psalm 102:16-23, 29
GOSPEL: Matthew 14:22-36
THEME: COME AND WALK ON WATER
The unfortunate events that led to the sinking of the Titanic in the early morning of April 15, 1912, teach us that even big ships do not guarantee safe destination. Sometimes in life, things may go wrong when you least expect. When that happens, what do you do? Who do you turn to?
In our Gospel text for today, Jesus teaches his disciples, and in particular Peter, an important lesson on faith. He gives this teaching not in a classroom but on the sea (lake) of Galilee. The Gospel gives a snapshot description of a challenge – “Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it” (Mat 14:24). In such a situation, it feels safe to hold tightly unto something in the boat and stay put, hoping for the best. However, in response to the request of Peter, Jesus said to him, “come”. Yes, come and walk on the very thing that is tossing your boat. Peter responded to the invitation of Jesus and got out of the boat. He “started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus” (Mat 14:29) – that was faith in action.
Faith in Jesus makes you overcome the very thing that is frightening you. Where there is faith, impossible things become possible. It enables you to say, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13).
We all have to make that once-in-a-lifetime journey from our mother’s womb to eternity. There are different forms of trials that come with that journey. Like Peter, when fear punches holes in our faith and we begin to sink, we can renew our faith by crying out, “Lord save me” (Mat 14:30). Faith in Jesus is the surest guarantee for a safe destination.
Lord Jesus, I put my trust in you in the face of the numerous challenges of this earthly life. Lead me on and bring me to the place you have designed and destined for me. Amen
Fr. Andrews Obeng, SVD
DIVINE WORD MISSIONARIES
BIBLICAL PASTORAL MINISTRY
(Ghana Province)