After doubting the testimony of the disciples that Jesus had been raised from the dead, the Lord comes again and speaks to the doubts (and fears!) of Thomas.
Here are some of the themes that we find in the Mass readings for the 11th Week of the Year.
1st Reading – Ezekiel 17:22-24
God will plant a cedar shoot on a high and lofty mountain where it will become a majestic tree.
All the trees of the field shall know that the Lord has done this.
Psalm – 92:2-3,13-16
“Lord, it is good to give thanks to you.”
We give praise to God who nourishes us so that we can grow, thrive, and bear fruit.
2nd Reading – 2nd Corinthians 5:6-10
Because of the gift of faith we are courageous as we face our daily fears and challenges.
We aspire to please God, knowing that one day we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.
Gospel – Mark 4:26-34
Jesus uses plants as parables to illustrate how the Kingdom of God starts small, is a process that is guided by the Lord, and becomes a large and majestic creation.
On his way to Damascus to hunt for followers of Christ, Paul is struck to the ground and blinded. Having his sight restored through Ananias’ intercession, the one who formerly persecuted the Church now becomes a shining example of faith.
Peter, strengthened by his faith in Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly addresses the leaders and courageously claims that Jesus is the Lord.
After reconnoitering the promised land and finding it fruitful, the scouts begin to raise doubts about the strength and ferocity of the people living there.
Let’s explore some of the themes in the readings for Mass on this 19th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – 1st Kings 19:9a,11-13a
Elijah takes shelter in a cave at Horeb and encounters mighty wind, an earthquake, and fire…but the Lord is not present in these natural forces.
Elijah then hears a tiny whispering sound, and he recognizes the Lord in the whisper.
Psalm – 85:9-14
“Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.”
We listen to God, and encounter kindness and truth, justice and peace.
2nd Reading – Romans 9:1-5
Paul is in anguish for his own people, the children of Israel, and would wish himself accursed for their sake.
Paul acknowledges that the promises to the Israelites are the glory of the covenants and promises of salvation history, which are fulfilled in Jesus Christ who is over all.
Gospel – Matthew 14:22-33
Jesus dismisses the crowds and goes up the mountain to pray while the disciples are in a boat being tossed about by a storm.
Jesus walks on the water to the disciples, and Peter calls out to him and begins to walk on the water.
When Peter sees the strength of the storm he starts to sink, and Jesus rescues him.
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