Let us pray:
Grant to us, Lord, we pray, the spirit to think and do always those things that are right, that we, who cannot exist without you, may by you be enabled to live according to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Today’s readings unfold human weakness that can affect us all. Jacob’s brothers are jealous of him and plan how to do away with him to put themselves in a position of gaining their fathers affection. Has there
been a time in your lives that made you a bit jealous of someone else’s success? We live in a world that measures a persons worth by their position and possessions unfortunately instead of their heart.
As Moses reminds us in the days of turmoil and confusion the one sure thing we can count on is God’s presence and His promise that no one who believes in Jesus will be put to shame. Moses emphasizes that there in no distinction on those who accept Jesus Jew and Greek. Today we need to remember our baptismal covenant to “respect the dignity of every human being” even in times of social unrest and confusion as a reminder of Moses’ teachings.
Today’s Gospel reminds us of how Jesus reaches out to everyone. When He was seen walking on the water to meet the disciples, and they were terrified until He spoke. His love offered to Peter the opportunity to share in this wondrous event and when he became fearful Jesus reached out to him. Again Jesus models how much love He holds for us all even to give us the
opportunity to experience His holiness but we fail to to remain strong and sometimes slip.
In today’s challenges with the pandemic and social unrest it is not hard to see that our faith is in constant flux and the only sure approach to dealing with the worlds challenges is to accept God’s presence and embrace the Holy Spirit as the provider of peace and comfort for us all.
When it seems there are only dark clouds on the horizon if we stop and truly look the presence of our Lord signs through the horizon and brings us comfort, peace and strength to carry on.
May the blessings of alright God be with us this day and remain with us forever. Amen
Fr John