Study of the Readings
Ed. by
Joyce Ann Zimmerman,
et al
• Words, Phrases
• To the point
• First Two Readings
• Experience
Dennis
Hamm, SJ
Matthew consistently presents the disciples as understanding quite well; their problem is that they have little faith. In the walking-on-the-water episode, the portrait of Peter illustrates exactly that point.
John Kavanaugh, SJ
God in the Quiet and in the Chaos
Rather than think our fears indicate a loss of moorings, we should imagine them as opportunities for deeper anchor. Fears rise as invitations to greater trust, if we only face them and move through them.
John J. Pilch
In today’s story, Jesus is absent when a strong head wind raises high waves that batter the boat and frighten its passengers. When the disciples see Jesus, they think he is a “ghost.”
If you love God you will have power to walk upon the waters, and all the world’s swell and turmoil will remain beneath your feet. But if you love the world it will surely engulf you, for it always devours its lovers, never sustains them.
Reginald H. Fuller
The boat represents the Church; the storm, the persecution through which Matthew’s community is passing. Jesus appears and challenges Peter, the disciple par excellence, to trust him. Peter is afraid and cries out, “Lord, save me.”