Saint Irenaeus became Bishop of Lyon upon the martyrdom of the previous Bishop and fought against heresies and schisms. He strongly supported the authority of the Church and the Pope as the unbroken line of authority. Pope Francis named him as the Doctor of Unity, since he worked for the unity of the Church. Today’s first reading tells us that sin leads to punishment but that God reveals his plans to his prophets in advance and gives the examples of Sodom and Gomorrah. The Israelites, who were protected, did not return to Him. We are exhorted to prepare to meet our God. The psalm tells us that God hates evildoers but will extend mercy to those who worship Him. The Gospel proclamation recounts the disciples’ panic and terror during the storm which threatened to swamp the boat while Jesus was asleep. He chastises them for their lack of faith and stills the wind and sea, astonishing the disciples. We too need faith that with Jesus in our lives, we will be protected from being swamped by life’s storms and tempests.

Prayer: Abba Father, send your Holy Spirit into our hearts to fortify our faith to withstand the trials and tribulations of life. Amen.