Having the Courage to Get Out of the Boat
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (A)
Read this Gospel passage aloud to the family
Matthew 14: 22-33 - After he had fed the people, Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. “It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Peter said to him in reply, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught Peter, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God.”
(Parent) Reread this part a few times aloud
“Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus.”
(Parent) Read this meditation aloud to the family
It’s a safe bet that most Catholics have never heard a homily that does St. Peter justice. We always hear how Peter sank because his faith was weak; how He had a habit of speaking rashly before thinking; how He denied Jesus three times to save his own neck; and how God still used Him, though he was an imperfect, weak man. Though all of this is true, we often unfairly portray him as a small minded, comic fool. But Jesus doesn’t think Peter is a comic fool. No, Peter risks much for his faith. He has daring. Even if no one else steps out and speaks up, Peter does. After all, He’s the only apostle to actually step out of the boat toward Jesus. He’s the only apostle to confess Christ as the Son of the Living God. He’s one of only two disciples to follow Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard. He might fail often, but at least he tries.
That’s daring. That’s humility. That’s real faith. And though his faith might be “weak” or “little,” he does have some. And what he has he uses! And that small, often wavering faith is mighty enough for Jesus Christ to build His Church upon it. Jesus doesn’t ask for our perfection; He asks for our faith…no matter how weak it is. In prayer, let’s consider: Where is God asking each of us to take a leap of faith? Let’s take that leap. Right now, take it!
As a family, pray a portion of the Rosary together (very short if children are young) reflecting on the Scripture passage above. (Optional: allow a brief time for discussion or questions from children concerning their thoughts and prayer.)
Reminder for Parents: Pier is just meant to be a jumping off point. The real goal is that you pray & eventually use the fruits of your personal prayer as the content of your family’s prayer. Duc in altum.
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