Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: August 5, 2025

Date: Tuesday of the 18^th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Matthew 14:22-36

Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, 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 him, 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.”

After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today recounts Jesus’ walking on water which brings the disciples in the boat to proclaim, “Truly, you are the Son of God.” The text also recounts Peter’s attempt to walk on water; initially, Peter was able, in faith to walk upon the sea, but he let his fear override his faith, and he began to sink. Jesus’ rebuke invites us to ask ourselves, “Why did you doubt?”  Finally, we see the healing that occurs with faith in Jesus.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I allow doubt and fear to “sink” my efforts on this journey to follow Christ?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, Son of God, our Savior, we look to You and seek to follow in your footsteps, but we admit that fear and doubt too often prevent us. Send your Spirit to strengthen our resolve and to grow our faith, to expand our hope, and to deepen our love so that we might more perfectly follow You as your loving and believing disciples to the glory of the Father. Amen