Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning[b] Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said.So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong[d] wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped Him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed. Matt 14:22-31
So many times we are in the boat with the water all around us. Maybe we are with friends and maybe we are all alone. The winds of adversity, the waves of doubt are all around. Maybe we are feeling anxiety, loss, anger and loneliness. Whatever the feelings, the waves are massive and we are fighting for our lives. We are up in the middle of the night when we see Jesus walking on water. He is shining either by the light of the moon, or by the glow of His body reflecting the light. He is coming toward us and we have the decision of whether or not we want to come out to him or stay in the rocking boat. Which way is safer? Which way is more adventurous? Which way shows our faith in Him?
In this story, Peter asks if he should get out of the boat, Jesus said, “ Don’t be afraid, take courage, I am here!” Peter wants to get out of the boat, but he wants to verify it is Jesus. Who else could it be? Maybe it’s the Easter bunny or something. Of course it is Jesus and he is doing something miraculous! How often do we see God at work and we say, Is this You God? Prove to me that it is you by telling me to come out of the boat of doubt. Jesus says, YES, COME! He is having a blast out there walking on the water and we are looking at all the reasons not to get out of the boat. Peter does get out of the boat. He did walk toward Jesus, but when He took his eyes off the Lord, the fear got the better of him. Jesus was right there to grab Peter up out of the water. The glorious walk was over and they got in the boat of safety. Jesus asked, “Why did you doubt me?” What happened to Peter’s faith? What happens to our faith when God gives us something amazing to do? Once Jesus was in the boat, the storm stopped and everyone worshiped Jesus. They were thankful that they were safe again, and in AWE of Jesus’ miracle.
Are you ready to walk on water? Everyone’s walk on water experience is different, but it takes faith and focus on Him. Fear and doubt have no place in our walk. Walk toward Jesus and He will take you on the adventure of your life. Joy is in the journey.
Lord, Show us Your miracles and help us to stay focused on you when the storms of life come. Thank you for being more powerful than the storms. We love to share in the adventures You have for us and we step out in faith and don’t doubt you.
In Jesus name, amen.