Reading: Matthew 14:28-33

Matthew 14:28 – “Lord, if it’s you, order me to come to you on the water.”

Reading the rest of the “Walking on the Water” story today, we see Peter being brave and faithful. He calls out to Jesus, steps out of the boat, and walks on water. The Old Testament describes God doing this. Jesus is now doing it. And now Peter does it. What a brave and faithful heart he has to call out and to step out. For a few steps, Peter was doing what Jesus was doing.

There are times in our lives when we sense or see Jesus’ presence or call. We desire to step out of our comfort zone and into the ministry opportunity before us. Once in a while perhaps we’re actually brave and faithful enough to step out in faith. Maybe it is to extend on offer of reconciliation in that broken relationship. Maybe it is to serve in a new role in your church or in a service organization.

As Peter is walking, yes, he notices the wind and likely the waves it is generating. He gets frightened and he begins to sink. Crying out to Jesus, Peter is rescued. Have you ever done this? Ever started to do something brave for God, then had second thoughts, doubts, fears? Maybe you only got out of the house or just started to dial the phone and fear rose up. Yet it was a few steps. It was a start in the right direction.

When Peter first saw Jesus, he said, “Lord, if it’s you, order me to come to you on the water.” Step one is a willingness. It requires a bravery and a desire to faithfully serve God and others. Each time we step out, our faith strengthens and deepens. Soon enough, we’ll take a few more steps – more than the last time. Trusting in the Lord, may we continue to step out in faith, learning to walk where Jesus walked.

Prayer: Lord God, open our eyes to the opportunities that you bring our way. Open our hearts to a deeper and bolder faith. Fill us with confidence, knowing that as we step out, you are there with us – ready to walk with us or to rescue us so that we can step out again. Amen.