Newsletter 13th August 2023 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time (A)

The readings for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A show us that God is Lord over all of the earth. In the first reading God tells us that he will provide for all of our needs and give us life. The psalm proclaims that God rules the world with kindness and justice The second reading explains that Christ is over all. And in the gospel Jesus walks on water to the disciples, whose boat is being tossed in a storm.

• Jesus’ Power Over Nature: The gospel narrates the miraculous event where Jesus walks on water, showcasing His divine power over the forces of nature.
• Faith in the Midst of Storms: Peter’s request to walk on water demonstrates a moment of strong faith, but his subsequent doubt highlights the challenge of maintaining faith in difficult circumstances.
• Fear and Doubt: Peter’s fear and doubt upon seeing the wind and waves reveal the human tendency to be easily swayed by external circumstances, even in the presence of Jesus.
• Jesus as the Savior: When Peter begins to sink, he cries out to Jesus, acknowledging Him as the Savior who can rescue him from danger and bring him to safety.
• The Call to Keep Focused on Jesus: Jesus admonishes Peter for his wavering faith, emphasizing the importance of keeping one’s focus on Him, rather than being distracted by the surrounding challenges.

PLEASE NOTE MASS IN DRUM NEXT SATURDAY EVENING (August 19th) WILL BE AT 7PM. IT WILL BE HELD IN THE CEMETERY (WEATHER PERMITTING)