DAILY HOMILIES #Miriam

This was now the second time the disciples were facing a possible shipwreck. Previously, Jesus was with them, but he was sleeping on a cushion. When his disciples woke him, he rebuked them for their lack of faith. This time, Jesus could see they were even more scared knowing He wasn’t with them in the boat, so He went to them walking on the sea. This was a lesson to the disciples, a proof that no matter how tough and challenging their journeys may be, they must never be afraid.

Miracles are of great value, but to repent from sin is the ultimate miracle. Every miracle is a sign pointing to God. Please do not get stuck on the sign and forget its meaning. Miracles must lead to repentance; otherwise, they become reduced to mere entertainment. God is disappointed with us when we return to our sinful ways after experiencing His miraculous intervention. Jesus expressed utter disappointment with the towns where most of His miracles had happened because, contrary to His expectations, the people remained stiff-necked in their sinful ways.

The Eighth Commandment forbids bearing false witness against others. Even more, the scriptures say: “Touch not my anointed ones, do my prophets no harm!” (1 Chronicles 16:22). We respect our spiritual leaders not because of who they are but because of the office they occupy.

Mariam and Aaron must have fallen into the trap of over-familiarity. They looked down on Moses and questioned his spiritual authority. Be careful about the way you speak of others. Avoid having to run others down especially when you do not know all the facts. The eighth commandment forbids bearing false witness against others.