18th Week, Ordinary Time, Monday, August 3, 2026

Reflection on the WORD

Trusting in Jesus” – Faith: Jesus walking on the sea; in the midst of a storm, invited Peter to “Come” to Him on the water. Peter, got out of the boat immediately, while the rest of the apostles, remained in the false securities of the boat. Ponder on, “Do we trust Jesus totally like Peter, or do we cling on to the false securities of our lives like money, self-glory?”

Matthew 14:22-23a, 25-31

Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side while he sent the crowds away. After sending the crowds away he went up into the hills by himself to pray. 

In the fourth watch of the night he came towards them, walking on the sea, and when the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. ‘It is a ghost,’ they said, and cried out in fear. But at once Jesus called out to them, saying, ‘Courage! It's me! Don't be afraid.’ 

It was Peter who answered. ‘Lord,’ he said, ‘if it is you, tell me to come to you across the water.’ Jesus said, ‘Come.’ Then Peter got out of the boat and started walking towards Jesus across the water, but then noticing the wind, he took fright and began to sink. ‘Lord,’ he cried, ‘save me!’ Jesus put out his hand at once and held him. ‘You have so little faith,’ he said, ‘why did you doubt?’ 

Today's Pointers on God's Word

As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?

  • The disciples were terrified when they saw Jesus walking on the sea, but the Lord calmed their fears.
  • We, too, often “fear” and withdraw from what the Lord may be asking from us, e.g. giving up the comforts of our life and leisure to serve Him in Parish ministries or to help the needy.
  • Is the Lord urging me to serve Him in some ways at this present time of my life? Do I feel the deep assurance that He will somehow give me the strength to do it, if I dare to trust Him?