MATTHEW 14:22-36 GOSPEL READING AND REFLECTION (August 3, 2020)
Immediately, Jesus obliged his disciples to get into the boat and go ahead of him to the other side, while he sent the crowd away. And having sent the people away, 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 is 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!”
They came ashore at Genesaret. The local people recognized Jesus and spread the news throughout the region. So they brought to him all the sick people, begging him to let them touch just the hem of his cloak. All who touched it became perfectly well.
POINTS OF REFLECTION
Our claim of oneness or being with the Lord is not the same as God’s claim to us. That is why life is not totally free from any turbulence that most of the time rocks our faith with the Lord. Like Jesus disciples in the olden days, fear is abound within us because of our human nature. This very nature of man is a whistle blower letting it know the quality of faith.
What is consoling brothers and sisters, human fear becomes a hotline for help unto Jesus. His feel of presence is also a touch of safety and security that humans need.
Fear also symbolizes lack of trust and faith in the Lord amidst challenges, trials, and problems of this life. Despite this, Jesus is always on time to be in the rescue by stretching his arms for those who really believe in Him. His voice is a command of authority from which nature is bound to follow.
Brothers and sisters, fear is simply doubting God. Do not fear, not even doubt for by doing so, you underestimate the power of God. It is He and no one else who takes control of everything in life.
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Doctor in Development Education ( Dev. Ed. D.), an all time educator as School Head and HEI Instructor.
