11 Aug
Sun
19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
1 Kgs. 19:9a,11-13a
Ps. 85:9-10,11-12, 13-14
Rom. 9:1-5
Mt. 14:22-23 (Psalter week III)
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What were Peter's memories of this scene on the lake? He certainly had the experience of walking on water as if it were dry land. It was by an act of reckless enthusiasm that he wanted to do what the Master was doing. On the other hand, he had shouted to the Master that he wanted to join Him, not merely enjoy the thrill of remaining upright on the Sea of Galilee. The others must have jeered at him as he came dripping into the boat after losing courage. The lesson he had learnt the hard way about his lack of trust in the Master must have come to his mind many times in days of stress and danger.

On reflection, Peter must have wondered why the Master had sent them forth on the lake as a storm was about to spring up. He had gone to pray as His apostles went into danger, but it must have reassured Peter in later years to know that the Master was never far away from them. The Church would often be harassed by storms but Christ would guide it safely to port.



Lord, we sometimes think that we cannot survive on the sea of life. The waves, lashed by strong winds threaten to overwhelm us. Through the intercession of Peter, help us to trust You in moments of danger when all seems lost. May we believe that You are never far away from us.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That respect for the environment, God's gift to all men and women, may increase both on a personal level and on that of world public opinion.
Elaboration

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