Daily Readings - Sun Aug 13 2017
Romans
1I speak the truth in Christ--I am not lying, my conscience confirms it in the Holy Spirit--2I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart.3For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, those of my own race,4the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises.5Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ, who is God over all, forever praised! Amen.
Matthew
22Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd.23After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone,24but the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.25During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake.26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."28"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."29"Come," he said.30Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.33Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are 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.