FRIDAY (August 14, 2020)
In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel Sentence
“…Immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”” (Matthew 14:27)
Reading
“Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”” (Matthew 14:22–27)
Meditation
Jesus goes up the mountain, alone, to pray. He has just healed the sick and fed the five thousand, and now He needs to withdraw and pray to His Father. Again and again, in the Gospel accounts, Jesus withdraws to the lonely places to pray. He moves away from the crowds, the clamor, the work, to spend time in holy conversation with His Father. In this precious time, Jesus is renewed and able to walk on water. He calms our fears and gives us peace. Jesus has also given us this gift of prayer. In prayer, Jesus ushers us into the Father’s presence.
Silence
Prayer for Holy Cross Member
Father, we lift up Aubrey before you this day, asking that You would give her your mercy all the days of her life. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Prayer of the Week (from Sunday)
Almighty and most merciful God, preserve us from all harm and danger that we, being ready in both body and soul, may cheerfully accomplish what You want done; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Lord’s Prayer