TUESDAY, EIGHTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Nm 12:1-13 Ps 51:3-7,12-13 Mt 14:22-36
APPROACH EVERY CHALLENGE WITH FAITH
The story of Miriam and Aaron’s rebellion against Moses reveals the destructive power of jealousy. Though Moses was the meekest of men, his own siblings spoke against him. The Lord swiftly intervened, affirming Moses’ faithfulness and punishing Miriam with leprosy. Yet, in her moment of suffering, Moses cried out to God, pleading, “Please heal her!” Moses teaches us that even when others wrong us, we are called to respond with love rather than bitterness. This theme of faith amid adversity is echoed in the Gospel. Peter steps out on the water in faith, but begins to sink as fear overtakes him. Yet, the moment he cries, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reaches out and rescues him. Like Moses interceding for Miriam, Jesus does not chastise Peter for his weakness but lifts him up, teaching him that faith grows through dependence on divine mercy.
Trials, whether from human conflict or life’s storms, are opportunities to deepen our trust in God. Miriam’s pride led to suffering, but Moses’ prayer brought restoration. Peter’s fear caused him to falter, but Jesus’ hand brought salvation. In our own lives, when we face criticism, doubt, or hardship, we must resist the temptation to respond with resentment or despair. Instead, we are called to imitate Moses’ intercession and Peter’s desperate cry for help, knowing that God does not abandon those who seek Him. Today’s readings reveal a God who defends the humble, answers the cries of the broken, and transforms weakness into strength. If we surrender our pride and fear to Him, He will not only sustain us but also use our trials to draw us closer to His heart. Let us, then, approach every challenge with faith, knowing that when we call on the Lord, He will stretch out His hand and say, “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.”
Response: Have mercy, O Lord, for we have sinned.
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