Daily Reflections

Memorial of St. Alphonsus Liguori
[407] Numbers 11:4b-15
Psalm 81:12-13, 14-15, 16-17
Matthew 14:22-36

August 1 is the feast of my father’s patron saint, St Alphonsus Ligouri. Elvin John is the name on my father’s birth certificate, Alphonsus was the name given him at Baptism because his mother’s aunt said his first name had to be a saint’s name. As a result, Elvin John was his legal name and he used the initials EJ, but he was known by most as Al from his baptismal name. My father was truly a kind and loving man; a man who was so secure in his relationship with God. I am sure that he had times of doubt like Peter in today’s gospel, but his words and actions were consistent in his love for Jesus. I yearn for that consistency in my relationship with God.

As I pray with today’s gospel, I am first confronted with my fear of drowning. It has always been such a strong fear, I cannot even imagine getting out of the boat as Peter did. However, I can recall the innumerable false starts in my relationship with Jesus. Like Peter, I want that relationship when life is rocking my boat perhaps here at work or with family or friends, or just with my own personal insecurities. I want to trust, but often I do not muster the faith to reach out to Jesus. Other times I can take that first step, but soon become faint-hearted and start floundering in my troubles. Jesus is always there to grab hold and carry me through despite my inability to trust or even acknowledge his love. It is totally amazing how much he gives to our relationship; his love is truly infinite.

“Eternal Father, your Son has promised that whatever we ask in His Name will be given to us. In His Name I pray: give me a burning faith, a joyful hope, a holy love for Jesus Christ. Give me the grace of perseverance in doing Your will in all things. Do with me what You will. I repent of having offended You. Grant, O Lord, that I may love You always and never let me be separated from You.”

Excerpt from a prayer of St. Alphonsus Ligouri