Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore,was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it.During the fourth watch of the night,he came toward them, walking on the sea.When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified.“It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear.At once Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”Peter said to him in reply,“Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.”He said, “Come.”Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus.But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened;and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!”Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him,and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”After they got into the boat, the wind died down.Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying,“Truly, you are the Son of God.”
I don't know about you, but there are times when I'm filled with with wonder and awe at the amazing goodness of our God, when I'm filled and powered with my belief in the something more Jesus calls us to. Those are also, it seems, the times when I'm able to "walk on the water toward Jesus." I've had moments where, grounded in the peace and love of Christ, I've been able to do things that I really have no ability to do. Until, that is, I look at my feet and begin to sink. Anxiety, worry, doubt, petty thoughts. I'm human after all, and thankfully the Scriptures give me a very human example to follow in Peter. He was always getting things wrong. But Jesus is always there, ready to catch him and teach him, again ... with love, compassion, and I like to think a little twinkle in his eye.
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