Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Dominic, Priest
Readings: Nm 12:1-13; Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 6cd-7, 12-13; Mt 14:22-36
Notes: Extreme Heat Advisory today.
The biggest theme of the current age is the feigned moralism on the pretext of protecting the people. What is really wanted is power. Raw power.
Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses on the pretext of the marriage he had contracted with a Cushite woman. They complained, “Is it through Moses alone that the LORD speaks? Does he not speak through us also?”
For Miriam after a period of chastisement and intercession she was cured.
- There was Miriam, a snow-white leper!
- When Aaron turned and saw her a leper, he said to Moses, “Ah, my lord! Please do not charge us with the sin that we have foolishly committed!
- Then Moses cried to the LORD, “Please, not this! Pray, heal her!”
- So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not start out again until she was brought back.
Even Miriam, who should be always honored and praised, is not immune to the error of feigned moralism on the pretext of protecting the people. When she really wanted power. But healing and growth came from the experience. There is a Jewish midrash that says the the cloud began to move again and the Israelites were to follow. But the people refused to follow until the period of chastisement was over and Miriam was back in the camp so honored she was worthy even to defy the LORD.
The LORD smiled. “Now they get it.”
In our gospel portion today Peter learns faith in Jesus is the real power.
The disciples learned.
The people of Gennesaret heard of Jesus.
They learned to have faith in Jesus.
First Reading
Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses on the pretext of the marriage he had contracted with a Cushite woman. The LORD defends Moses saying, Throughout my house he bears my trust: face to face I speak to him; plainly and not in riddles. Then Moses cried to the LORD, “Please, not this! Pray, heal her!”
Responsorial
Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Gospel Acclamation
Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.
Gospel
Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” After they got into the boat, the wind died down.
After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry