he went up the mountain by himself, to pray. At nightfall, he was there alone. Meanwhile, the
boat was very far from land, dangerously rocked by the waves, for the wind was against it.
At daybreak, Jesus came to them, walking on the sea. When they saw him walking on the
sea, they were terrified, thinking that it was a ghost. And they cried out in fear.
But at once, Jesus said to them, “Courage! Don’t be afraid. It’s me!” Peter answered, “Lord,
if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” Jesus said to him, “Come!”
And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water to go to Jesus. But seeing the strong
wind, he was afraid, and began to sink; and he cried out, “Lord, save me!”
Jesus immediately stretched out his hand and took hold of him, saying, “Man of little faith,
why did you doubt?” As they got into the boat, the wind dropped. Then those in the boat
bowed down before Jesus, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God!”
READ: In the first reading, Elijah waits for the Lord to come to him, waiting patiently through
the earthquake and fire for the gentle voice of the Lord. Paul reminds his readers of the status
of the Jewish people as God’s chosen, blessed by him throughout the ages. Matthew’s Gospel
recounts Jesus walking on the water and calling Peter to come to him across the sea.
REFLECT: When I was small, I prayed this prayer at bedtime each night: Gentle Jesus, meek
and mild, look upon this little child. Unfortunately, as we grow older, we all too often forget
Jesus’ gentleness and meekness. Like the people of his own day, we look for a great warrior
that we can be proud to follow, rather than a humble savior who served. Today’s readings
remind us of God’s gentleness. God does not come in wind and fire, but in a murmur. Though
he commands the waves, the most striking image in the Gospel is Jesus reaching out to take
hold of Peter. In his gentleness and loving care, God shows us his glory. If we wish to follow
him, gentleness will mark our path.
PRAY: Gentle Jesus, help me to act with compassion and love.
ACT: Do something kind for someone in need.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2023
