Scripture

Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid”, he said. “Take courage. I am here.”

Observation

Jesus sends the disciples back across the lake in a boat. Jesus goes up to the hills to pray.

A strong wind arises on the lake, and the disciples are afraid. About 3 o’clock in the morning, they see Jesus walking on the water towards them.

Jesus calls to them to reassure them that He is not a ghost. Peter calls to him,“Lord, if it is really you, tell me to come to you on the water.”

So Peter walks to Jesus on the water. When they get back in the boat, the storm calms.

Application

In the gospels, boats can often be seen as a symbol of the church. Here, the boat is being assaulted from every direction by wind and waves. To get to Jesus, Peter does something brave and unexpected – he leaves the safety of the boat and steps into the storm.

Sometimes, to find Jesus we have to temporarily leave our comfortable safe place, to go in faith to be with Him.

The test that Peter put out is brave. “Lord, if it is really you command me to come and walk on the water.”

Traditionally, we use safe tests of God’s will. But here, Peter lays his life on the line to know Jesus.

Finally, we have the words of Jesus: “Take courage. I am here.”

Whenever we are afraid or feeling under great pressure, we need to listen to Jesus. Peace comes from hearing the voice of the Lord.

Prayer

Thank you Lord that you meet us in stormy places, in scary places. Please help me to look to you, my Lord and Saviour. Amen.