Peter Walks on Water

Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33 (Click link for scripture in Bible Gateway)

22 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. 23 After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. 24 Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. 25 About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” 27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” 28 Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” 29 “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. 31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” 32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed. (Matthew 14:22-33 NLT)

Please read the story above, slowly, and thoughtfully. Jesus sent his disciples back across the lake, sent the healed and well-fed crowds home, and went into the hills to pray. Later he caught up with his storm-stalled disciples, walking toward them on the water. They feared, he comforted them. Peter asked to walk on water, and Jesus said “Come!” Peter climbed out of the boat and walked on water, then he feared and began to sink. Jesus grabbed him and they walked together to the boat and climbed in. The storm stopped, the disciples’ faith grew, and they lived happily ever after. (except for the happily ever after part!)

There is truth in this story for each of us, not necessarily the same truth for you as for me, or for you now as for you another time. When I was in my 40’s and 50’s, I’d have said, “Jesus call me to come to you on the water!” Now that I’m turning 80 in a few days I’d be more likely to wait and ask Peter to tell me about it when he got back. I want to accept my season of life, but not get lazy or fearful. That’s what it says to me right now. What does it say to you?

Prayer:

Father, We are reading this today in many life seasons and situations. We each need a fresh word from you for the life we live today and the challenges we face tomorrow. By your Spirit, let the story speak to each of us just what we need to hear. Amen!