MONTHLY DEVOTIONAL FOR 5 AUGUST
August 5, 2025
NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION
August 6, 2025
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
5 AUGUST, 2025
Matthew 14:22-36
Jesus made the disciples get into a boat
and precede him to the other side of the sea,
while he dismissed the crowds.
After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray.
When it was evening he was there alone.
Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore,
was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it.
During the fourth watch of the night,
he came toward them, walking on the sea.
When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified.
“It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear.
At once Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”
Peter said to him in reply,
“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!”
Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him,
and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”
After they got into the boat, the wind died down.
Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying,
“Truly, you are the Son of God.”
After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret.
When the men of that place recognized him,
they sent word to all the surrounding country.
People brought to him all those who were sick
and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak,
and as many as touched it were healed.
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
In this powerful passage, Jesus walks on water to reach His disciples who are struggling in a storm. While the winds rage, Jesus calmly approaches, revealing His divine authority over creation. Peter’s bold step out of the boat reflects faith, but his faltering focus on Jesus leads to sinking. Yet, even in his doubt, Jesus immediately reaches out to save him. This moment teaches us that storms will come, but when we fix our eyes on Christ and trust His presence, we can walk above the waves. Even when our faith wavers, His grace never does.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, When storms of life rise around me and fear begins to cloud my heart, help me to remember that You are near. Teach me to fix my eyes on You, not on the wind and waves. Like Peter, I long to walk in faith, but I often falter when the path feels uncertain. Reach out and lift me when I sink in doubt. Calm my spirit with Your peace and assure me that You are Lord over every storm. Let me trust that even in the darkest waters, Your hand is always extended. Amen
