Walking on Water

 Matthew 14: 25-33  During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?" And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."

I am very familiar with this passage.  But today when I read it I found so much more than I had before!!!  I love that The Word of God is living and breathing, always teaching when I am open and willing.

So what did God have waiting for me today?

First because I am reading the New Testament in chronological order over three months, I have read about how much time the disciples are spending with Jesus, all that He is teaching them and all that miracles that He is performing in their presence.  Just prior to this passage, Jesus sent the disciples out on the water so that He could have some quiet time with His Father.  He had only been away from them for a little while.  And yet, when He walks across the water to join them they "thought He was a ghost."  Forgetting the teachings, the miracles......... all that they knew and had seen vanished in that instant.  How comforting to know that even those in His very presence reacted just like I do sometimes.

Second, great words for me both as a child of God and as a parent.  How does Jesus respond to their doubt, fear and fright?  Reassuringly, boldly, speaking to them and telling them what they need to do in the moment that it's happening.  I pray that I become more like my Father as I mentor/parent those in my care.

Third, even after hearing the voice of Jesus and His directions, Peter still must test Him.  "then let me walk on the water, too."  And patiently our LORD responds.  Providing Peter what He needs to be confident in Him.  But there's something that Jesus did not warn Peter of..... to accomplish your task you must remain focused on Him.  Somewhere in between walking and falling, Peter became distracted and took His focus from Jesus.  The verse comes to mind.... "I can do all things through Christ Jesus"..... but watch out when I take my focus off of Him!  Fear, doubt, complete mission failure will follow.  I have experienced this before as well.....

Fourth, even in the very midst of our second round of doubt, fear and failure to focus, Jesus is there.  Not scolding, but giving a hand and pulling him to safety.

Fifth, but once full knowledge is restored to the disciples Jesus asks them "why did you doubt?" and calls it the way He sees it "you of little faith."  He doesn't scoot stuff under the carpet.  He puts it out there for us to think about.

Sixth, once the disciples came to the end of this experience, they "saw" and their faith was renewed and had grown.

Even though I was familiar with passage, I had not read it since having many of my own "walking on water" moments with Jesus.  From one to six, Jesus didn't waiver a single ounce from how He loved and taught the disciples to how He loves and teaches me..... he teaches each perfectly, as we uniquely need to hear from Him.

I love it when I read The Word of God and find myself totally connected to the disciples through my own experiences.  I find great reassurance and encouragement.

Thank You, Father, for Your Word.  Thank You for Jesus and Your Holy Spirit.  I cannot imagine my life without You.  Thank You for providing a way to be Your child, for loving me, teaching me, disciplining me and forgiving me.  Thank You for always breathing new insights into reading to encourage me and draw me closer to You.  I Father, as I prayed yesterday, I long to be more like Jesus.  Today, You show me yet another example of where I can grow.  Thank You for Your presence and guidance in all areas of my surrendered life.  I love you Abba. Amen.