Gospel Reflections for August 13 2017
Finding God in a storm
In the first reading, Elijah is an Old Testament prophet who learns that God will speak to him soon. Moments later, there is a mighty windstorm, a powerful earthquake, and even a firestorm. Those were the usual places ancient people believed where God spoke, but this first reading indicates those days are over. God speaks to Elijah not in frightening natural events, but in a small quiet voice that is personal and just for him to hear.
Elijah was wise to not be distracted by what others said was God’s voice, but kept his attention on the authentic voice of God.
In the Gospel, Peter and the disciples are on a small boat in a stormy sea. Jesus personally invites Peter to get out of the boat and walk on the raging waves …would you have gotten out?
Amazingly, Peter does get out and walks on the water toward Jesus. While He keeps his eyes on Our Lord, he remains afloat, but when he takes notice of the storm and takes his eyes off Jesus he begins to sink. He should have followed Elijah’s good example!
This weekend we begin a series of spiritual events remembering the 100th anniversary of the apparitions of Our Lady to three children in the small Portuguese town of Fatima in 1917. Their stories unleashed a firestorm of controversy. They faced opposition from many people, even relatives. Like Elijah and Peter, they found themselves in the midst of a storm, and yet these three humble children always kept their focus on God, and His messages of love through Mary. That is what kept them safe and secure, and confident in their future.
Windstorms, earthquakes, and firestorms are all natural events. Disbelieving friends and relatives are also normal reactions for those who did not see Mary themselves. Nothing remarkable there.
What is remarkable about Elijah, the Fatima children, and eventually …even Peter, is having a strong focus on God and His message of love no matter what else is happening.
The world today can be a bewildering place of conflicting news stories, outrageous claims and accusations, and even threats from bad nations and terrorists. Let us learn from the example of Elijah, Peter, and even three young children from Fatima. Never let anything distract yourself from your focus on God and His love for you. Most especially, never let anything prevent you from showing His love to others.
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
Beautiful reminder to stay focused on our Lord. Thank you Father
You are welcome!
Beautifully expressed Father Dave!!! Love God’s love, Live God’s love and share His love with others!!
Loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee it!!
Have a precious day in God’s beautifulLOVE!!
Loveeeeeeeeeee, Franca and Dick!!!
Thank you!
The most important thing: remember the most important thing
I like that!
Always keep your eyes on the Lord.
That could be the motto we have for every day.
Father Dave,
Thank you for another powerful, insightful and direct message that is very relevant for us in today’s world.
You are very welcome!
Thank you for a lovely way to tie the first reading into the Gospel. We should not be distracted by the storm, but focus on God in the quiet prayers of our hearts.
Yes, that is the goal.
I have listened to those readings several times this week. I really paid mostley to the Gowspel and how no mater how strong the storm to keep our eyes on Jesus.
I loved your relating to both in the same way. I completely flew over my head and your analogy was great. It put it all in the right perspective. If we don’t get it one way there is always another. WOW
The Gospels are an incredibly treasure of wisdom. We get new insights every time.
God’s Love X Reflection of God’s Love
=
God’s Mercy X Reflection of God’s Mercy.
💖AMEN
Well said!
Wow! I always enjoy hearing your message. But this is the first time I have replied. Thank you so much so much so much for continuing to show God’s love to others, father Dave. You are a beacon showing us the light and the simplicity of God’s message. I will even pass this message on to a daughter, though raised Catholic, has with her husband joined the Methodist Church
Thank you for showing us the simplicity of Gods word in Scripture, if we only pay attention and listen and look… Really focus on the beautiful simplicity and precious gift of God, which is …. LL oh oh oh ooove
Thank you for your reply. I am glad you enjoy my reflections. I certainly enjoy writing them!