18th Week in Ordinary Time : Tuesday 8th August 2023

Due to their jealousy and pride, Aaron and Mariam make a complaint against Moses on two counts. Firstly, they accuse Moses of marrying a Cushite woman, a foreigner. Secondly, they questioned Moses’ role as the sole spokesperson for God.

Aaron points out that both he and Miriam are prophets too. It shows resentment against Moses’ exclusive role as a mediator between God and the people.

Moses himself does not respond to the complaints. Instead, it is God who does. The response comes in the form of instruction and punishment. God says that He communicates with prophets in “visions” and “dreams”, but with Moses, He speaks face-to-face and “plainly”.

The punishment comes as a sickness – Miriam is struck with leprosy. Aaron appeals to Moses for help. Moses prays to God for healing, an act that confirms his authority as the spokesperson of God.

In the Gospel passage, Peter and the disciples, in the boat battling the sea, see Jesus walking on the water. Fear grips them, and they cry, “It is a ghost”.

“Courage! It is I! Do not be afraid”, says Jesus.

Then Peter excitedly wants to share in Jesus’ miraculous power by walking on the water. Jesus allows him to do so. But overwhelmed by the power of nature, Peter doubts and begins to sink. Jesus saves him from drowning. We are reminded today that God is in control of everything. Let us depend totally on God.

Lord, help me depend on You totally.