Homily – Tuesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time

Readings:

  • Numbers 12:1–13

  • Psalm 51:3–4, 5–6ab, 6cd–7, 12–13

  • John 1:49b (Alleluia verse)

  • Matthew 14:22–36


Introduction

A little boy told his mom, “I want to walk on water like Jesus did.” So he filled the bathtub, stood in it with his rubber boots, and said, “Look, Mom, I’m doing it!” She smiled and said, “Well, you have faith, but I think you also have boots!”

Faith isn’t pretending; it’s daring to trust even when your boots won’t float. Today’s readings invite us to deeper trust, even when storms rise or people oppose us.

The Word of God

1. Numbers 12:1–13 – The Sin of Jealousy and the Prayer of Mercy
Miriam and Aaron, Moses' own siblings, challenge his leadership out of jealousy. God responds firmly, affirming Moses’ unique relationship with Him: “With him I speak face to face.” Miriam is struck with leprosy, but Moses doesn’t retaliate—he pleads for her healing: “O God, please heal her!”
This shows the cost of envy and the grace of forgiveness. Even when betrayed, Moses remains intercessor, not accuser.

2. Psalm 51 – The Cry of a Penitent Heart
King David’s psalm, traditionally attributed to his repentance after sin, is one of the Church’s most profound prayers for mercy. It highlights personal responsibility (“my sin is always before me”) and the need for God’s cleansing. It pairs beautifully with Moses’ plea for mercy on behalf of Miriam.

3. Matthew 14:22–36 – Jesus Walks on Water
Jesus sends His disciples into a storm—intentionally. He then walks on water toward them. Peter, bold but human, steps out in faith but sinks when fear takes over. Jesus catches him with a question: “Why did you doubt?”
This is not condemnation but formation. Even in sinking, Peter learns something essential about trusting Christ in chaos.

4. John 1:49b (Alleluia verse)
“Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” This profession reminds us who it is that commands wind and wave: the divine Son of God, the true and present King.

Connection of the Readings

These readings flow around three themes:

  • Opposition and Jealousy (Miriam and Aaron),

  • Repentance and Mercy (Psalm 51),

  • Fear and Faith (Peter on the water).

Yet all end in God’s mercy: Miriam is healed; David is restored; Peter is rescued. Even in sin, storms, and doubt, God’s hand is near.

Reflection Questions

  1. Have I ever felt opposed or betrayed by people close to me like Moses did? How did I respond?

  2. In moments of fear, do I step out in faith or retreat in doubt like Peter?

  3. Do I intercede for others, especially those who have wronged me?

  4. What “storm” am I facing today—and where is Jesus in it?

Implications for Daily Living – Jubilee Year and Synod on Synodality

In this Jubilee Year of Hope and during the Synod on Synodality, we are called:

  • To listen more than accuse, even when there is jealousy or misunderstanding.

  • To walk with the weak, like Moses did for Miriam, praying for healing, not punishment.

  • To step out in faith, like Peter—even when we feel unsure.

  • To seek unity in mission, avoiding divisions like Aaron and Miriam introduced.

The Church that listens, forgives, and walks together—especially with those who falter—is the Church of the Jubilee.

Inspiration / Motivation

“Do not be afraid to step out of the boat. Faith begins when comfort ends.”

“The measure of our Christianity is not how we react when we’re admired, but how we respond when we’re betrayed.”

Today is a chance to say: I will forgive. I will walk by faith. I will cry out, and I trust that God hears me.

Quote

“God does not look at the greatness of our actions, but at the love with which they are done.” – St. Teresa of Ávila

Final Thoughts

In the story of Moses, David, and Peter, we see God’s mercy toward human weakness. Leadership is hard. Faith is hard. Forgiveness is hard. But God never stops walking toward us—even when we sink, complain, or betray.

Like Moses, may we pray for others—even when they wrong us. Like Peter, may we dare to walk, even when it’s stormy.

Conclusion

Faith is not about never sinking. It’s about knowing who to call when we do.
May this day be one where we step out, even with trembling feet, knowing the Lord will catch us.

Concluding Prayer

Lord Jesus, help me today to walk in faith, not fear. Teach me to forgive like Moses, to repent like David, and to step out like Peter. When storms rise, calm my heart. When others fail me, help me pray for them. And when I fail, remind me You are near. In this Jubilee Year, may I be a pilgrim of hope, walking with others in Your light. Amen.

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