Lectio Divina for the Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Read the following Scripture two or three times:
Matthew 14:22-33
After he had fed the people, Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other
side, 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 Peter, 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.”
Meditation
After the reading, take some time to reflect in silence on or more of the following questions:
– What word or words in this passage caught your attention?
– What in this passage comforted you?
– What in this passage challenged you?
Contemplation
Read the Scripture again, followed by this reflection:
What conversion of mind, heart, and life is the Lord asking of me?
When it was evening he was there alone. .
When have I felt most alone?
How can I be present to those who have no one?
During the fourth watch ot he night, he came toward them walking on the sea.
When have I seen the power of God displayed?
How can I grow in trust of God’s awesome power ?
Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.
When have I been tempted to test the Lord?
When has my faith been plagued by doubts?
After a period of silent reflection recite the Lord’s Prayer.
Living the Word This Week
How can I make my life a gift for others in charity?
Reach out to someone who is homebound, incarcerated, unhoused, or otherwise alone.
