Tuesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time

In today’s Gospel, we read about fear as experienced by the Disciples.  They sat offshore in a boat while Jesus went up on the mountain by himself to pray.  The boat…was being tossed about by the waves…During the fourth watch of the night, (Jesus) came toward them, walking on the sea.  When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified….and they cried out in fear…At once Jesus spoke to them, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’

Their leader, mentor, faithful companion and friend was there to provide solace.  Peter was so encouraged by the presence of Jesus that he tried to walk on the water toward Jesus but his fear overcame his courage and … Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him.  Those in the boat who witnessed the actions of Jesus proclaimed, ‘Truly, you are the Son of God.’