Daily Readings - Sun Aug 13 2017

Second Reading - Romans 9.1-5

¹I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,²That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.³For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh:⁴Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;⁵Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.

Gospel - Matthew 14.22-33

Matthew

Chapter 14

²²And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.²³And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.²⁴But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.²⁵And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.²⁶And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.²⁷But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.²⁸And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.²⁹And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.³⁰But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.³¹And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?³²And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.³³Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter profound expressions of faith and love. The second reading from Romans reveals Paul's deep sorrow as he yearns for the salvation of his Jewish brothers, willing to sacrifice his own relationship with Christ for their sake. This passage highlights Paul's immense love and concern, set against the backdrop of his people's unbelief despite their privileged position as God's chosen. The Gospel from Matthew presents a dramatic scene where Jesus walks on water amidst a storm. Peter's attempt to join Jesus on the water illustrates the human struggle with faith—initial courage followed by doubt. Jesus' immediate rescue and words of encouragement underscore the importance of unwavering faith, even in the face of adversity. Both readings converge on the theme of faith. Paul's faith drives his compassion, while the Gospel emphasizes trust in God's presence during challenges. In our daily lives, we face storms—be they personal struggles or spiritual doubts. These readings remind us to maintain faith, trusting in God's providence and care. Let us also embrace Paul's selfless love, striving to bring others closer to Christ. May our faith be steadfast, guiding us through life's tempests and inspiring us to care deeply for others' spiritual well-being.