course correction
“He perceived how strong the wind was.” —Matthew 14:30
In today’s Gospel, St. Peter “began to walk on the water, moving toward Jesus. But when he perceived how strong the wind was, becoming frightened, he began to sink” (Mt 14:29-30). Wind and wave conditions were vital information for a fisherman like Peter. Thousands of days and nights studying the wind and waves had honed his instincts as a fisherman for making critical decisions. At this point in his discipleship training, Peter was still learning how to look at Jesus for guidance. Jesus was teaching Peter not to doubt, and to form the practice of looking at Him rather than any other source of information. The Master’s appraisal of Peter was that he still had “little faith” (Mt 14:31).
In addition to fearing the dangers of bad weather, Peter may additionally have been checking the winds and waves in preparation to make a “course correction,” as he would have often done as a ship’s “captain.” Should he correct course by retreating toward the safety of the boat, or should he continue on course by walking toward Jesus and risking his life?
God also called the prophet Elijah to make a “course correction.” Elijah was fleeing from his own “wind and waves,” that is, the wrath of Queen Jezebel (see 1 Kgs 19:2ff). Elijah had spent forty days and nights fleeing in the opposite direction from her (1 Kgs 19:8). God changed Elijah’s direction; He sent him along a different path, to anoint several leaders who would alter Israel’s future (1 Kgs 19:15-16).
Is God calling you to make a course correction? If so, where will you gain your information? Look to Jesus (Heb 12:2). “He will make straight your paths” (Prv 3:6).
Prayer: Father, “teach me Your paths” (Ps 25:4). Help me to look only at Jesus for Your sure path (Prv 4:25-27).
Promise: “The Lord Himself will give His benefits.” —Ps 85:13
Praise: Praise Jesus, risen, glorified, and soon to come. Alleluia!
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: "In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Nihil Obstat for the publication One Bread, One Body covering the time period August 1, 2026, through September 30, 2026. Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May, 6, 2026"
The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.