How To Walk On Water (((HOMILY))): 19th Sunday in Ordinary TIme

Before you try walking on water, look at St. Peter today in the Gospel reading from Matthew as an example of what not to do. In this famous miracle, the future first pope called out to Jesus to ask if he could join him standing on the surface of the Sea of Galilee. He does. It all goes well until Peter takes his eyes off the Lord. Suddenly he panics at the raging storm around him and begins to sink. Is that not you and me? When the storms of life come and they will come, we are all tempted to lose sight of the Lord. We stop praying; we stop going to Mass; we neglect our soul (I am not speaking about those who refrain from coming because of the uncertainty of COVID-19. Each of us needs to judge the risks we take and act accordingly. Rather, I am referring to avoiding the extremes. True virtue is found in the middle, as St. Thomas Aquinas reminds us). The challenge for us Christians is to lock our gaze firmly on Jesus, no matter what comes.  --- Help Spread the Good News --- Father Brian’s homilies are shared freely thanks to generous listeners like you. If his words have blessed you, consider supporting this volunteer effort. Every gift helps us continue recording and sharing the hope of Jesus—one homily at a time. Give Here: https://frbriansoliven.org/give