Matthew 14:28-32
“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Matthew 14:28-32 (NIV)
Wow! Can you imagine? I mean really, can you imagine being in a boat in a large lake at night and seeing what looks like someone walking on the water? According to Matthew it was during the fourth watch of the night, probably between 3 and 6 am, when the dawn is approaching. The disciples were a long way from the shore, the wind against them, and they were battered by the waves. Seeing someone or something walking on water would terrify me too!
Jesus lets the disciples know it is He, not a ghost or other phantom walking toward them. Peter says “If it is really you Jesus, then tell me to come to you on the water.” Jesus says, “Come.” Peter steps out of the boat, and it all goes well for a bit. Then it goes south for Peter. He cries out for the Lord to save him and Jesus does.
When I read this, I think there are a couple of things I should learn as a follower of Christ. We are to have faith and be willing to step out of the boat (my comfort zone). We should do/try new things, especially if it involves my faith. Maybe it’s teaching a Sunday school class, volunteering to help with food distribution, or visiting with someone about our beliefs. Southwood has lots of ways to volunteer! We know this and have heard it before, but reminders are good.
Also, there is a lesson here on keeping your eye on Jesus. When everything is going well in my life, or the opposite and it’s all going wrong, I need to keep God first and keep my eyes on Jesus. I need to have faith that He will keep His promise to always be with us. Again, this is something I know and have heard before, but sometimes I don’t to keep my eyes on the Lord. Like Peter, I let fear or circumstances distract me from the goal of keeping my focus on Jesus. Reading daily devotions is one way to keep my eyes on Christ.
Questions for Reflection:
- What “nudge” have you felt recently to “step out in faith” and try something new at Southwood?
- How do you keep your eyes on Christ?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I thank you for your word that reminds us to keep our eyes on Jesus and to have courage and faith to step out of our comfort zone to serve you and others. Amen.
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