Matthew 14:25-33

“And early in the morning he came walking towards them on the lake. But when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’

Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came towards Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’

Oh, to have that initial faith of Peter amid a storm to step out of the boat. I want to say I am that brave one but maybe not. Maybe I am really the other disciples in the boat, I like the boat. I have something to hold onto when the wind picks up. I really don’t like salt water in my hair or my eyes. We’ll make it through just fine if I stay in the boat. But something more interesting is happening outside the boat, huh? The miracle of walking on water, or as the song, Dancing On The Waves, paints something much more exciting. I love the chorus’ challenge but also words of comfort:

I’m reaching out, I’ll chase you down I dare you to believe how much I love you now Don’t be afraid, I am your strength We’ll be walking on the water, dancing on the waves

It reminds me, you aren’t alone when you step out. Jesus is already there. Maybe stepping out of the boat will more than fine, it will be epic. I’m singing Jesus, maybe I am ready to start dancing too?

Prayer

Gracious Lord, you more than reach out, you take our hands and together we dance. Oh, how wonderful it would be if we could trust you to lead. Even in the midst of the roaring wind and both feet firmly planted in the boat, we see you out there walking on water. May your beckoning hand be what we grasp instead. May we join you out of the boat, we so want to Lord. Amen.