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The following presentation is made possible by the generosity of the viewers of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago.

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Today we celebrate the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time. My name is Dan Riley. I am joined by Tom McNamara and Joyce McGuigan, and our celebrant is Father James Wallace.

We walk by faith and not by sight, no gracious words we hear, from him who spoke as none there spoke, but we believe him near. Help then, O Lord, our unbelief, and may our faith abound, to call on you when you are near, and seek where you are found.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. — Amen.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Good morning, brothers and sisters. Welcome for Mass on this 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time. We’re grateful that you’ve joined us here at Mercy Home, and so we prepare ourselves to celebrate these sacred mysteries by calling to mind our sins.

You were sent to heal the contrite of heart. Lord, have mercy. — Lord, have mercy.

You came to call sinners. Christ, have mercy. — Christ, have mercy.

You are seated at the right hand of the Father to intercede for us. Lord, have mercy. — Lord, have mercy.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. — Amen.

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Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will.

Let us pray. Almighty, ever-living God, whom taught by the Holy Spirit, we dare to call our Father. Bring, we pray, to perfection in our hearts the spirit of adoption as your sons and daughters, that we may merit to enter into the inheritance which you have promised. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. — Amen.

First Reading

A reading from the first Book of Kings.

At the mountain of God, Horeb, Elijah came to a cave where he took shelter. Then the Lord said to him, “Go outside and stand on the mountain before the Lord. The Lord will be passing by.” A strong, heavy wind was rending the mountains and crushing rocks before the Lord. But the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind, there was an earthquake. But the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake, there was fire. But the Lord was not in the fire. After the fire, there was a tiny whispering sound. When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and stood at the entrance of the cave.

The word of the Lord. — Thanks be to God.

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Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation. Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.

I will hear what the Lord God speaks. He speaks of peace for his people and his faithful. His salvation is near for those who fear him, and his glory will dwell in our land. Lord, let us see your kindness and grant us your salvation.

Second Reading

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans.

Brothers and sisters: I speak the truth in Christ. I do not lie. My conscience joins with the Holy Spirit in bearing me witness that I have great sorrow and constant anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my own people, my kindred according to the flesh. They are Israelites. Theirs the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises. Theirs the patriarchs. And from them, according to the flesh, is the Christ who is over all, God blessed forever. Amen.

The word of the Lord. — Thanks be to God.

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Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. I wait for the Lord; my soul waits for his word. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Gospel

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew. — Glory to you, O Lord.

After you have fed the people, Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and proceed 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.”

The Gospel of the Lord. — Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Homily

You know, this passage of Jesus walking on water is like one of the famous classic scenes in the Gospels. We’ve known it since we were a kid. This is one of the great miracles of Jesus walking on water, calming the storm. It’s a beautiful passage to pray with. If you’re trying to kind of learn or get better at the technique of praying with Scripture, you might like to start with this passage, especially when it comes to trying to use your imagination and having God communicate to you through the Scriptures. This is what it means to pray with Scripture. Kind of put yourself in the scene, or maybe you see the scene as a metaphor for something going on in your life. We all have storms that come about. We all feel at times when we’re alone, maybe God seems distant.

You notice at the beginning of the Gospel, Jesus ordered the disciples to get onto the boat. He said, basically, “Leave me.” And Jesus, of course, knew that the storm was gonna come about. So he almost is sending them into the storm, sending them into this trial. And we’ve all maybe have had that kind of experience before. So you pray with it, and you bring it to God — the storms in your life. And ultimately, with Peter, your desire to be close to God. We don’t just want the storm to go away, but we want something to fill the void in our hearts.

That’s why Peter is a great model here. And so we pray with that desire for God. The storm has been calmed. He could just go back to the ship and back to fishing and trying to get to the other side. But he wants to be near Jesus. So he does something incredible. He walks on the water for the time being. And then, of course, we know what happens to Peter. He begins to sink once he takes his eyes off the Lord. When he starts noticing the wind and the storm around him, or the fact that he’s doing something very powerful, kind of looking back where he’s come from, that’s when he goes down.

So for us, we do amazing things in your life through the grace of God. “All things are possible with God’s grace.” That’s what Paul says to the Romans here. We have to keep our focus on him because there’s always going to be distractions — things that are going to make us doubt ourselves or we’re going to be afraid, think it’s impossible to do this thing, and we begin to sink. But again, we keep our eyes on our Lord. We can do the miracle. And so the miracle happens throughout our lives.

And then, so finally, just to connect it to Elijah real quick, because he went through a similar storm in his life. He was being hunted down by the king and the queen of Israel. He’s the last remaining prophet left for the time being. And he goes into this cave. And when he’s in this cave, the cave is a model of prayer. Remember, Jesus is praying in the cave when he sees the storm. When we pray, we go into our cave. So Elijah goes into his cave. He’s depressed. He’s afraid. He’s got all these emotions going on. He doesn’t give up, but he relates it to God. And then God speaks to him. Of course, God speaks to him in that silent whispering voice.

So for us, can we find our caves today? Can we find our caves this week, give our hearts to God, and be given the strength to continue the journey? Amen.

Creed

So friends, we profess our faith now together:

I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary and became man. For our sake, he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one holy Catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. And I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. — Amen.

Prayers of the Faithful

We know that our God sees our lives, especially the storms that we are facing. And so he draws near to us, and now we offer him our petitions for the Church and for the world. Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.”

For our Holy Father and all clergy, may they be a beacon of hope as they spread Christ’s Gospel message. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For those who have recently lost a loved one, may the Lord’s unconditional love bring them comfort. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For the children of Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, may the Lord guide them as they prepare to begin the new school year. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For all those who face hardships in life, may their faith and trust in God strengthen them during their challenging days. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

Almighty and loving Father, we commend all of these prayers into your loving hands, and we ask that you answer them through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

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Liturgy of the Eucharist

Pray, brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God, the almighty Father. — May the Lord accept this sacrifice at your hands, for the praise and glory of his name, for our good and the good of all his holy Church.

Be pleased, O Lord, to accept the offerings of your Church, for in your mercy you have given them to be offered, and by your power you transform them into the mystery of our salvation. Through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Lift up your hearts. — We lift them up to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God. — It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God. For we know it belongs to your boundless glory that you came to the aid of mortal beings with your divinity, and even fashioned for us a remedy out of mortality itself, that the cause of our downfall might become the means of our salvation through Christ our Lord. Through him the host of angels adores your majesty and rejoices in your presence forever. May our voices, we pray, join with theirs in one chorus of exultant praise as we acclaim:

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Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

You are indeed holy, O Lord, the fount of all holiness. Make holy, therefore, these gifts, we pray, by sending down your Spirit upon them like the dewfall, so that they may become for us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, he took bread and, giving thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you, and eat of it, for this is my body, which will be given up for you.” In a similar way, when supper was ended, he took the chalice and, once more giving thanks, he gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you, and drink from it, for this is the chalice of my blood, the blood of the new and eternal covenant, which will be poured out for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.”

The mystery of faith.

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When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, O Lord, until you come again.

Therefore, as we celebrate the memorial of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, the bread of life and the chalice of salvation, giving thanks that you have held us worthy to be in your presence and minister to you. Humbly, we pray, the partaking of the body and blood of Christ, we may be gathered into one by the Holy Spirit. Remember, Lord, your Church spread throughout the world and bring her to the fullness of charity, together with Leo, our Pope, and Blasé, our Bishop, and all the clergy. Remember also our brothers and sisters who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection and all who have died in your mercy. Welcome them into the light of your face. Have mercy on us all, we pray, that with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, blessed Joseph, her spouse, with the blessed Apostles and all the Saints who have pleased you throughout the ages, we may merit to be co-heirs to eternal life and may praise and glorify you through your Son, Jesus Christ. Through him and with him and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours forever and ever.

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Amen, amen, amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Friends, let us all join our voices together and pray the words that Jesus taught us:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever.

Lord Jesus Christ, who said to your Apostles, “Peace I leave you, my peace I give you,” look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church, and graciously grant our peace and unity in accordance with your will, who live and reign forever and ever. — Amen.

Peace of the Lord be with you always. — And with your spirit.

Let us offer each other a sign of peace. Brothers and sisters, peace be with you.

Thank you again for joining us and watching Mass here and praying with us. We pray for you. We have your intentions here. We encourage you to send us your intentions — anything that we can pray for, yourself, health issues, or loved ones that you want us to pray for. Please send them our way so we can offer Mass for you and for them. But we appreciate your support of Mercy Home. On behalf of Father Donahue and everyone here at Mercy Home, God bless you. Christ’s peace to you this day.

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Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Grant us peace.

Behold the Lamb of God. Behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb. — Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

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For those of you at home, please turn to page six in your TV Mass guide and join in singing our Communion song: “Be Not Afraid.”

You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety, though you do not know the way. You shall speak your words in foreign lands, and all will understand. You shall see the face of God and live. Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.

If you pass through raging waters, in the sea, you shall not drown. If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed. If you stand before the power of hell, and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all. Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.

And now we’ll pray together the prayer for the children of Mercy Home.

Our Lady of Mercy, we pray that you will guide, protect, and bless all boys and girls who this day have a home called Mercy. May they find the Father’s mercy as we offer them our hearts in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. May they see God’s mercy in action through our love, prayers, and sacrifices.

Let us pray. May the communion in your sacrament that we have consumed save us, O Lord, and confirm us in the light of your truth through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

It’s great to be with you for Mass. Thank you for praying with us. I hope you’re enjoying these warm summer days.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Bow your heads and pray for God’s blessing.

May almighty God always keep every adversity far from you, and in his kindness, pour out upon you the gifts of his blessing. May God keep your hearts attentive to his words that they may be filled with everlasting gladness. May you always understand what is good and right, and be found ever hastening along in the path of God’s commands, made co-heirs with the citizens of heaven. Amen.

And may the blessing of almighty God, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, come down on you all and remain with you forever. — Amen.

Go in peace. — Thanks be to God.

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Moved by the Gospel, let us move with every gift and art. The image of creative love indwells each human heart. The maker calls creation good, so let us now express, with sound and color, stone and wood, the shape of holiness. Let weavers form from broken strands a tapestry of prayer. Let artists paint with skillful hands their joy, lament, and care. Then mime the story, Christ has come, with reverence, dance the word. With flute and organ, bell and drum, God’s praise be ever heard.

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Hello, my friends. As you know, as I know, this TV ministry at Mercy Home is so important. It allows us to gather wherever you may be to participate in the prayer of the Church. It allows us to pray for one another, and how important it is. It allows you and me to pray for the children here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. We’re nourished by our presence together and by the celebration of the Eucharist. I just want to take this opportunity to thank you so very much for the ways in which you support this Mass here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Please consider doing that going forward as well. And may God bless you and your family and your friends for all you do for the TV Mass at Mercy Home and for our children.

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home is generously provided by GIA Publications Incorporated and its World Library Publications division.

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The following presentation is made possible by the generosity of the viewers of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago.

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Today we celebrate the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time. My name is Dan Riley. I am joined by Tom McNamara and Joyce McGuigan, and our celebrant is Father James Wallace.

We walk by faith and not by sight, no gracious words we hear, from him who spoke as none there spoke, but we believe him near. Help then, O Lord, our unbelief, and may our faith abound, to call on you when you are near, and seek where you are found.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. — Amen.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Good morning, brothers and sisters. Welcome for Mass on this 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time. We’re grateful that you’ve joined us here at Mercy Home, and so we prepare ourselves to celebrate these sacred mysteries by calling to mind our sins.

You were sent to heal the contrite of heart. Lord, have mercy. — Lord, have mercy.

You came to call sinners. Christ, have mercy. — Christ, have mercy.

You are seated at the right hand of the Father to intercede for us. Lord, have mercy. — Lord, have mercy.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. — Amen.

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Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will.

Let us pray. Almighty, ever-living God, whom taught by the Holy Spirit, we dare to call our Father. Bring, we pray, to perfection in our hearts the spirit of adoption as your sons and daughters, that we may merit to enter into the inheritance which you have promised. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. — Amen.

First Reading

A reading from the first Book of Kings.

At the mountain of God, Horeb, Elijah came to a cave where he took shelter. Then the Lord said to him, “Go outside and stand on the mountain before the Lord. The Lord will be passing by.” A strong, heavy wind was rending the mountains and crushing rocks before the Lord. But the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind, there was an earthquake. But the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake, there was fire. But the Lord was not in the fire. After the fire, there was a tiny whispering sound. When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and stood at the entrance of the cave.

The word of the Lord. — Thanks be to God.

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Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation. Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.

I will hear what the Lord God speaks. He speaks of peace for his people and his faithful. His salvation is near for those who fear him, and his glory will dwell in our land. Lord, let us see your kindness and grant us your salvation.

Second Reading

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans.

Brothers and sisters: I speak the truth in Christ. I do not lie. My conscience joins with the Holy Spirit in bearing me witness that I have great sorrow and constant anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my own people, my kindred according to the flesh. They are Israelites. Theirs the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises. Theirs the patriarchs. And from them, according to the flesh, is the Christ who is over all, God blessed forever. Amen.

The word of the Lord. — Thanks be to God.

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Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. I wait for the Lord; my soul waits for his word. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Gospel

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew. — Glory to you, O Lord.

After you have fed the people, Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and proceed 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.”

The Gospel of the Lord. — Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Homily

You know, this passage of Jesus walking on water is like one of the famous classic scenes in the Gospels. We’ve known it since we were a kid. This is one of the great miracles of Jesus walking on water, calming the storm. It’s a beautiful passage to pray with. If you’re trying to kind of learn or get better at the technique of praying with Scripture, you might like to start with this passage, especially when it comes to trying to use your imagination and having God communicate to you through the Scriptures. This is what it means to pray with Scripture. Kind of put yourself in the scene, or maybe you see the scene as a metaphor for something going on in your life. We all have storms that come about. We all feel at times when we’re alone, maybe God seems distant.

You notice at the beginning of the Gospel, Jesus ordered the disciples to get onto the boat. He said, basically, “Leave me.” And Jesus, of course, knew that the storm was gonna come about. So he almost is sending them into the storm, sending them into this trial. And we’ve all maybe have had that kind of experience before. So you pray with it, and you bring it to God — the storms in your life. And ultimately, with Peter, your desire to be close to God. We don’t just want the storm to go away, but we want something to fill the void in our hearts.

That’s why Peter is a great model here. And so we pray with that desire for God. The storm has been calmed. He could just go back to the ship and back to fishing and trying to get to the other side. But he wants to be near Jesus. So he does something incredible. He walks on the water for the time being. And then, of course, we know what happens to Peter. He begins to sink once he takes his eyes off the Lord. When he starts noticing the wind and the storm around him, or the fact that he’s doing something very powerful, kind of looking back where he’s come from, that’s when he goes down.

So for us, we do amazing things in your life through the grace of God. “All things are possible with God’s grace.” That’s what Paul says to the Romans here. We have to keep our focus on him because there’s always going to be distractions — things that are going to make us doubt ourselves or we’re going to be afraid, think it’s impossible to do this thing, and we begin to sink. But again, we keep our eyes on our Lord. We can do the miracle. And so the miracle happens throughout our lives.

And then, so finally, just to connect it to Elijah real quick, because he went through a similar storm in his life. He was being hunted down by the king and the queen of Israel. He’s the last remaining prophet left for the time being. And he goes into this cave. And when he’s in this cave, the cave is a model of prayer. Remember, Jesus is praying in the cave when he sees the storm. When we pray, we go into our cave. So Elijah goes into his cave. He’s depressed. He’s afraid. He’s got all these emotions going on. He doesn’t give up, but he relates it to God. And then God speaks to him. Of course, God speaks to him in that silent whispering voice.

So for us, can we find our caves today? Can we find our caves this week, give our hearts to God, and be given the strength to continue the journey? Amen.

Creed

So friends, we profess our faith now together:

I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary and became man. For our sake, he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one holy Catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. And I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. — Amen.

Prayers of the Faithful

We know that our God sees our lives, especially the storms that we are facing. And so he draws near to us, and now we offer him our petitions for the Church and for the world. Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.”

For our Holy Father and all clergy, may they be a beacon of hope as they spread Christ’s Gospel message. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For those who have recently lost a loved one, may the Lord’s unconditional love bring them comfort. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For the children of Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, may the Lord guide them as they prepare to begin the new school year. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For all those who face hardships in life, may their faith and trust in God strengthen them during their challenging days. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

Almighty and loving Father, we commend all of these prayers into your loving hands, and we ask that you answer them through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

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Liturgy of the Eucharist

Pray, brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God, the almighty Father. — May the Lord accept this sacrifice at your hands, for the praise and glory of his name, for our good and the good of all his holy Church.

Be pleased, O Lord, to accept the offerings of your Church, for in your mercy you have given them to be offered, and by your power you transform them into the mystery of our salvation. Through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Lift up your hearts. — We lift them up to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God. — It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God. For we know it belongs to your boundless glory that you came to the aid of mortal beings with your divinity, and even fashioned for us a remedy out of mortality itself, that the cause of our downfall might become the means of our salvation through Christ our Lord. Through him the host of angels adores your majesty and rejoices in your presence forever. May our voices, we pray, join with theirs in one chorus of exultant praise as we acclaim:

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Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

You are indeed holy, O Lord, the fount of all holiness. Make holy, therefore, these gifts, we pray, by sending down your Spirit upon them like the dewfall, so that they may become for us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, he took bread and, giving thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you, and eat of it, for this is my body, which will be given up for you.” In a similar way, when supper was ended, he took the chalice and, once more giving thanks, he gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you, and drink from it, for this is the chalice of my blood, the blood of the new and eternal covenant, which will be poured out for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.”

The mystery of faith.

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When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, O Lord, until you come again.

Therefore, as we celebrate the memorial of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, the bread of life and the chalice of salvation, giving thanks that you have held us worthy to be in your presence and minister to you. Humbly, we pray, the partaking of the body and blood of Christ, we may be gathered into one by the Holy Spirit. Remember, Lord, your Church spread throughout the world and bring her to the fullness of charity, together with Leo, our Pope, and Blasé, our Bishop, and all the clergy. Remember also our brothers and sisters who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection and all who have died in your mercy. Welcome them into the light of your face. Have mercy on us all, we pray, that with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, blessed Joseph, her spouse, with the blessed Apostles and all the Saints who have pleased you throughout the ages, we may merit to be co-heirs to eternal life and may praise and glorify you through your Son, Jesus Christ. Through him and with him and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours forever and ever.

[Piano playing]

Amen, amen, amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Friends, let us all join our voices together and pray the words that Jesus taught us:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever.

Lord Jesus Christ, who said to your Apostles, “Peace I leave you, my peace I give you,” look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church, and graciously grant our peace and unity in accordance with your will, who live and reign forever and ever. — Amen.

Peace of the Lord be with you always. — And with your spirit.

Let us offer each other a sign of peace. Brothers and sisters, peace be with you.

Thank you again for joining us and watching Mass here and praying with us. We pray for you. We have your intentions here. We encourage you to send us your intentions — anything that we can pray for, yourself, health issues, or loved ones that you want us to pray for. Please send them our way so we can offer Mass for you and for them. But we appreciate your support of Mercy Home. On behalf of Father Donahue and everyone here at Mercy Home, God bless you. Christ’s peace to you this day.

[Piano playing]

Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Grant us peace.

Behold the Lamb of God. Behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb. — Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

[Piano playing]

For those of you at home, please turn to page six in your TV Mass guide and join in singing our Communion song: “Be Not Afraid.”

You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety, though you do not know the way. You shall speak your words in foreign lands, and all will understand. You shall see the face of God and live. Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.

If you pass through raging waters, in the sea, you shall not drown. If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed. If you stand before the power of hell, and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all. Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.

And now we’ll pray together the prayer for the children of Mercy Home.

Our Lady of Mercy, we pray that you will guide, protect, and bless all boys and girls who this day have a home called Mercy. May they find the Father’s mercy as we offer them our hearts in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. May they see God’s mercy in action through our love, prayers, and sacrifices.

Let us pray. May the communion in your sacrament that we have consumed save us, O Lord, and confirm us in the light of your truth through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

It’s great to be with you for Mass. Thank you for praying with us. I hope you’re enjoying these warm summer days.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Bow your heads and pray for God’s blessing.

May almighty God always keep every adversity far from you, and in his kindness, pour out upon you the gifts of his blessing. May God keep your hearts attentive to his words that they may be filled with everlasting gladness. May you always understand what is good and right, and be found ever hastening along in the path of God’s commands, made co-heirs with the citizens of heaven. Amen.

And may the blessing of almighty God, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, come down on you all and remain with you forever. — Amen.

Go in peace. — Thanks be to God.

[Piano playing]

Moved by the Gospel, let us move with every gift and art. The image of creative love indwells each human heart. The maker calls creation good, so let us now express, with sound and color, stone and wood, the shape of holiness. Let weavers form from broken strands a tapestry of prayer. Let artists paint with skillful hands their joy, lament, and care. Then mime the story, Christ has come, with reverence, dance the word. With flute and organ, bell and drum, God’s praise be ever heard.

[Piano playing]

Hello, my friends. As you know, as I know, this TV ministry at Mercy Home is so important. It allows us to gather wherever you may be to participate in the prayer of the Church. It allows us to pray for one another, and how important it is. It allows you and me to pray for the children here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. We’re nourished by our presence together and by the celebration of the Eucharist. I just want to take this opportunity to thank you so very much for the ways in which you support this Mass here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Please consider doing that going forward as well. And may God bless you and your family and your friends for all you do for the TV Mass at Mercy Home and for our children.

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home is generously provided by GIA Publications Incorporated and its World Library Publications division.

[Piano playing]

[Piano playing]

The following presentation is made possible by the generosity of the viewers of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago.

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Today we celebrate the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time. My name is Dan Riley. I am joined by Tom McNamara and Joyce McGuigan, and our celebrant is Father James Wallace.

We walk by faith and not by sight, no gracious words we hear, from him who spoke as none there spoke, but we believe him near. Help then, O Lord, our unbelief, and may our faith abound, to call on you when you are near, and seek where you are found.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. — Amen.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Good morning, brothers and sisters. Welcome for Mass on this 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time. We’re grateful that you’ve joined us here at Mercy Home, and so we prepare ourselves to celebrate these sacred mysteries by calling to mind our sins.

You were sent to heal the contrite of heart. Lord, have mercy. — Lord, have mercy.

You came to call sinners. Christ, have mercy. — Christ, have mercy.

You are seated at the right hand of the Father to intercede for us. Lord, have mercy. — Lord, have mercy.

May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. — Amen.

[Piano playing]

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will.

Let us pray. Almighty, ever-living God, whom taught by the Holy Spirit, we dare to call our Father. Bring, we pray, to perfection in our hearts the spirit of adoption as your sons and daughters, that we may merit to enter into the inheritance which you have promised. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. — Amen.

First Reading

A reading from the first Book of Kings.

At the mountain of God, Horeb, Elijah came to a cave where he took shelter. Then the Lord said to him, “Go outside and stand on the mountain before the Lord. The Lord will be passing by.” A strong, heavy wind was rending the mountains and crushing rocks before the Lord. But the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind, there was an earthquake. But the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake, there was fire. But the Lord was not in the fire. After the fire, there was a tiny whispering sound. When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and stood at the entrance of the cave.

The word of the Lord. — Thanks be to God.

[Piano playing]

Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation. Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.

I will hear what the Lord God speaks. He speaks of peace for his people and his faithful. His salvation is near for those who fear him, and his glory will dwell in our land. Lord, let us see your kindness and grant us your salvation.

Second Reading

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans.

Brothers and sisters: I speak the truth in Christ. I do not lie. My conscience joins with the Holy Spirit in bearing me witness that I have great sorrow and constant anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my own people, my kindred according to the flesh. They are Israelites. Theirs the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises. Theirs the patriarchs. And from them, according to the flesh, is the Christ who is over all, God blessed forever. Amen.

The word of the Lord. — Thanks be to God.

[Piano playing]

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. I wait for the Lord; my soul waits for his word. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Gospel

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew. — Glory to you, O Lord.

After you have fed the people, Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and proceed 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.”

The Gospel of the Lord. — Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

Homily

You know, this passage of Jesus walking on water is like one of the famous classic scenes in the Gospels. We’ve known it since we were a kid. This is one of the great miracles of Jesus walking on water, calming the storm. It’s a beautiful passage to pray with. If you’re trying to kind of learn or get better at the technique of praying with Scripture, you might like to start with this passage, especially when it comes to trying to use your imagination and having God communicate to you through the Scriptures. This is what it means to pray with Scripture. Kind of put yourself in the scene, or maybe you see the scene as a metaphor for something going on in your life. We all have storms that come about. We all feel at times when we’re alone, maybe God seems distant.

You notice at the beginning of the Gospel, Jesus ordered the disciples to get onto the boat. He said, basically, “Leave me.” And Jesus, of course, knew that the storm was gonna come about. So he almost is sending them into the storm, sending them into this trial. And we’ve all maybe have had that kind of experience before. So you pray with it, and you bring it to God — the storms in your life. And ultimately, with Peter, your desire to be close to God. We don’t just want the storm to go away, but we want something to fill the void in our hearts.

That’s why Peter is a great model here. And so we pray with that desire for God. The storm has been calmed. He could just go back to the ship and back to fishing and trying to get to the other side. But he wants to be near Jesus. So he does something incredible. He walks on the water for the time being. And then, of course, we know what happens to Peter. He begins to sink once he takes his eyes off the Lord. When he starts noticing the wind and the storm around him, or the fact that he’s doing something very powerful, kind of looking back where he’s come from, that’s when he goes down.

So for us, we do amazing things in your life through the grace of God. “All things are possible with God’s grace.” That’s what Paul says to the Romans here. We have to keep our focus on him because there’s always going to be distractions — things that are going to make us doubt ourselves or we’re going to be afraid, think it’s impossible to do this thing, and we begin to sink. But again, we keep our eyes on our Lord. We can do the miracle. And so the miracle happens throughout our lives.

And then, so finally, just to connect it to Elijah real quick, because he went through a similar storm in his life. He was being hunted down by the king and the queen of Israel. He’s the last remaining prophet left for the time being. And he goes into this cave. And when he’s in this cave, the cave is a model of prayer. Remember, Jesus is praying in the cave when he sees the storm. When we pray, we go into our cave. So Elijah goes into his cave. He’s depressed. He’s afraid. He’s got all these emotions going on. He doesn’t give up, but he relates it to God. And then God speaks to him. Of course, God speaks to him in that silent whispering voice.

So for us, can we find our caves today? Can we find our caves this week, give our hearts to God, and be given the strength to continue the journey? Amen.

Creed

So friends, we profess our faith now together:

I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation, he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary and became man. For our sake, he was crucified under Pontius Pilate. He suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one holy Catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. And I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. — Amen.

Prayers of the Faithful

We know that our God sees our lives, especially the storms that we are facing. And so he draws near to us, and now we offer him our petitions for the Church and for the world. Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.”

For our Holy Father and all clergy, may they be a beacon of hope as they spread Christ’s Gospel message. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For those who have recently lost a loved one, may the Lord’s unconditional love bring them comfort. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For the children of Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, may the Lord guide them as they prepare to begin the new school year. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

For all those who face hardships in life, may their faith and trust in God strengthen them during their challenging days. We pray to the Lord. — Lord, hear our prayer.

Almighty and loving Father, we commend all of these prayers into your loving hands, and we ask that you answer them through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

[Piano playing]

Liturgy of the Eucharist

Pray, brothers and sisters, that my sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God, the almighty Father. — May the Lord accept this sacrifice at your hands, for the praise and glory of his name, for our good and the good of all his holy Church.

Be pleased, O Lord, to accept the offerings of your Church, for in your mercy you have given them to be offered, and by your power you transform them into the mystery of our salvation. Through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Lift up your hearts. — We lift them up to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God. — It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God. For we know it belongs to your boundless glory that you came to the aid of mortal beings with your divinity, and even fashioned for us a remedy out of mortality itself, that the cause of our downfall might become the means of our salvation through Christ our Lord. Through him the host of angels adores your majesty and rejoices in your presence forever. May our voices, we pray, join with theirs in one chorus of exultant praise as we acclaim:

[Piano playing]

Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

You are indeed holy, O Lord, the fount of all holiness. Make holy, therefore, these gifts, we pray, by sending down your Spirit upon them like the dewfall, so that they may become for us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, he took bread and, giving thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you, and eat of it, for this is my body, which will be given up for you.” In a similar way, when supper was ended, he took the chalice and, once more giving thanks, he gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take this, all of you, and drink from it, for this is the chalice of my blood, the blood of the new and eternal covenant, which will be poured out for you and for many, for the forgiveness of sins. Do this in memory of me.”

The mystery of faith.

[Piano playing]

When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, O Lord, until you come again.

Therefore, as we celebrate the memorial of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, the bread of life and the chalice of salvation, giving thanks that you have held us worthy to be in your presence and minister to you. Humbly, we pray, the partaking of the body and blood of Christ, we may be gathered into one by the Holy Spirit. Remember, Lord, your Church spread throughout the world and bring her to the fullness of charity, together with Leo, our Pope, and Blasé, our Bishop, and all the clergy. Remember also our brothers and sisters who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection and all who have died in your mercy. Welcome them into the light of your face. Have mercy on us all, we pray, that with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, blessed Joseph, her spouse, with the blessed Apostles and all the Saints who have pleased you throughout the ages, we may merit to be co-heirs to eternal life and may praise and glorify you through your Son, Jesus Christ. Through him and with him and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours forever and ever.

[Piano playing]

Amen, amen, amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Friends, let us all join our voices together and pray the words that Jesus taught us:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever.

Lord Jesus Christ, who said to your Apostles, “Peace I leave you, my peace I give you,” look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church, and graciously grant our peace and unity in accordance with your will, who live and reign forever and ever. — Amen.

Peace of the Lord be with you always. — And with your spirit.

Let us offer each other a sign of peace. Brothers and sisters, peace be with you.

Thank you again for joining us and watching Mass here and praying with us. We pray for you. We have your intentions here. We encourage you to send us your intentions — anything that we can pray for, yourself, health issues, or loved ones that you want us to pray for. Please send them our way so we can offer Mass for you and for them. But we appreciate your support of Mercy Home. On behalf of Father Donahue and everyone here at Mercy Home, God bless you. Christ’s peace to you this day.

[Piano playing]

Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Have mercy on us. Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Grant us peace.

Behold the Lamb of God. Behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb. — Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

[Piano playing]

For those of you at home, please turn to page six in your TV Mass guide and join in singing our Communion song: “Be Not Afraid.”

You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety, though you do not know the way. You shall speak your words in foreign lands, and all will understand. You shall see the face of God and live. Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.

If you pass through raging waters, in the sea, you shall not drown. If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed. If you stand before the power of hell, and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all. Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.

And now we’ll pray together the prayer for the children of Mercy Home.

Our Lady of Mercy, we pray that you will guide, protect, and bless all boys and girls who this day have a home called Mercy. May they find the Father’s mercy as we offer them our hearts in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. May they see God’s mercy in action through our love, prayers, and sacrifices.

Let us pray. May the communion in your sacrament that we have consumed save us, O Lord, and confirm us in the light of your truth through Christ our Lord. — Amen.

It’s great to be with you for Mass. Thank you for praying with us. I hope you’re enjoying these warm summer days.

The Lord be with you. — And with your spirit.

Bow your heads and pray for God’s blessing.

May almighty God always keep every adversity far from you, and in his kindness, pour out upon you the gifts of his blessing. May God keep your hearts attentive to his words that they may be filled with everlasting gladness. May you always understand what is good and right, and be found ever hastening along in the path of God’s commands, made co-heirs with the citizens of heaven. Amen.

And may the blessing of almighty God, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, come down on you all and remain with you forever. — Amen.

Go in peace. — Thanks be to God.

[Piano playing]

Moved by the Gospel, let us move with every gift and art. The image of creative love indwells each human heart. The maker calls creation good, so let us now express, with sound and color, stone and wood, the shape of holiness. Let weavers form from broken strands a tapestry of prayer. Let artists paint with skillful hands their joy, lament, and care. Then mime the story, Christ has come, with reverence, dance the word. With flute and organ, bell and drum, God’s praise be ever heard.

[Piano playing]

Hello, my friends. As you know, as I know, this TV ministry at Mercy Home is so important. It allows us to gather wherever you may be to participate in the prayer of the Church. It allows us to pray for one another, and how important it is. It allows you and me to pray for the children here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. We’re nourished by our presence together and by the celebration of the Eucharist. I just want to take this opportunity to thank you so very much for the ways in which you support this Mass here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. Please consider doing that going forward as well. And may God bless you and your family and your friends for all you do for the TV Mass at Mercy Home and for our children.

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home is generously provided by GIA Publications Incorporated and its World Library Publications division.

[Piano playing]

You know, this passage of Jesus walking on water is like one of the famous classic scenes in the Gospels. We’ve known it since we were a kid. This is one of the great miracles of Jesus walking on water, calming the storm. It’s a beautiful passage to pray with. If you’re trying to kind of learn or get better at the technique of praying with Scripture, you might like to start with this passage, especially when it comes to trying to use your imagination and having God communicate to you through the Scriptures. This is what it means to pray with Scripture. Kind of put yourself in the scene, or maybe you see the scene as a metaphor for something going on in your life. We all have storms that come about. We all feel at times when we’re alone, maybe God seems distant.

You notice at the beginning of the Gospel, Jesus ordered the disciples to get onto the boat. He said, basically, “Leave me.” And Jesus, of course, knew that the storm was gonna come about. So he almost is sending them into the storm, sending them into this trial. And we’ve all maybe have had that kind of experience before. So you pray with it, and you bring it to God — the storms in your life. And ultimately, with Peter, your desire to be close to God. We don’t just want the storm to go away, but we want something to fill the void in our hearts.

That’s why Peter is a great model here. And so we pray with that desire for God. The storm has been calmed. He could just go back to the ship and back to fishing and trying to get to the other side. But he wants to be near Jesus. So he does something incredible. He walks on the water for the time being. And then, of course, we know what happens to Peter. He begins to sink once he takes his eyes off the Lord. When he starts noticing the wind and the storm around him, or the fact that he’s doing something very powerful, kind of looking back where he’s come from, that’s when he goes down.

So for us, we do amazing things in your life through the grace of God. “All things are possible with God’s grace.” That’s what Paul says to the Romans here. We have to keep our focus on him because there’s always going to be distractions — things that are going to make us doubt ourselves or we’re going to be afraid, think it’s impossible to do this thing, and we begin to sink. But again, we keep our eyes on our Lord. We can do the miracle. And so the miracle happens throughout our lives.

And then, so finally, just to connect it to Elijah real quick, because he went through a similar storm in his life. He was being hunted down by the king and the queen of Israel. He’s the last remaining prophet left for the time being. And he goes into this cave. And when he’s in this cave, the cave is a model of prayer. Remember, Jesus is praying in the cave when he sees the storm. When we pray, we go into our cave. So Elijah goes into his cave. He’s depressed. He’s afraid. He’s got all these emotions going on. He doesn’t give up, but he relates it to God. And then God speaks to him. Of course, God speaks to him in that silent whispering voice.

So for us, can we find our caves today? Can we find our caves this week, give our hearts to God, and be given the strength to continue the journey? Amen.