Memorial of Saint John Vianney, Priest

“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!”

When we seek to do God’s Will, we will have both moments of triumph and defeat. One moment we will be walking on water, unable to do anything wrong and then a strong wind will blow against us. This resistance may come from family, friends, neighbors, or other causes, but whatever the source we will doubt, sink, and become frightened of God’s plan for us. During these times of weakness, we must join Peter in crying out, “Lord, save me!” And Jesus will stretch out his hand, help us to rise again, and remind us that we needn’t have worried at all because with faith in him all things are possible.

Are we afraid of what God is calling us to do? When have we failed to follow His Will, have we asked for Jesus’ help? Do we accept the hand of Jesus when he offers to lift us up again?

O Lord, save us!

Amen.