Greetings on this the Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Readings: 1 Kings 19:9a, 11-13a; Psalm 85:9, 10, 11-12, 13-14; Romans 9:1-5; Matthew 14:22-33
Summary
Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God.” (Mt 14:33).
Later in Matthew, Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” (Mt 16:16).
Reflection
- The Walking on the Water has been our gospel reading this past Monday and Tuesday and again today.
- On Monday we considered doubt: Why did you doubt?
- On Tuesday we considered the response: Put Your hand in The Hand
Today we arrive at recognition: “Truly, you are the Son of God.”
We can glean the context with the first reading from First Kings: At the mountain of God, Horeb, Elijah came to a cave where he took shelter. The Lord revealed himself in an amazingly gentle and simple way.
Not in the strong winds.
Not in the earthquake.
Not in the raging fire.
But in a tiny whispering sound. The “silent sound,” is mysterious and ultimately ungraspable.
In that silent whisper, volumes of presence.
The story of the Walking on the Water brings the full meaning forward, the Lord doesn’t overpower but helps us overcome our doubts and enlivens our Ask. Jesus, like in the story of Elijah, is the gentle whisper. He is the Son of the God of Whispers with the full weight of the power, victory and majesty.
Our psalmist brings in verse the poetic meaning of his divine presence.
I will hear what God proclaims;
the LORD — for he proclaims peace.
Near indeed is his salvation to those who fear him,
glory dwelling in our land.
Kindness and truth shall meet;
justice and peace shall kiss.
Truth shall spring out of the earth,
and justice shall look down from heaven.
The LORD himself will give his benefits;
our land shall yield its increase.
Justice shall walk before him,
and prepare the way of his steps.
(Psalm 85:9, 10, 11-12, 13-14)
Personal Reflection
Lord, the Walking on Water brings us clarity on who you are, how you are, and what you desire for us.
Truly, you are the Son of God.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/080926.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry