Matthew 14:22-33 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 14:22-33 on biblegateway.com
Verse 22Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. Verse 23And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, Verse 24but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. Verse 25And early in the morning he came walking toward them on the sea. Verse 26But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out in fear. Verse 27But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, "Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid." Verse 28Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." Verse 29He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus. Verse 30But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Verse 31Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" Verse 32When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. Verse 33And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."
Devotion
Let’s give the disciples credit. They took the voyage on which Jesus sent them. They sailed deep waters, at night, in a storm. And they stayed alert – so alert that through the darkness, they noticed something coming toward them. They had no idea what they were seeing. Who wouldn’t be afraid?
It was Jesus, doing what he does for those who follow Him. He was doing whatever it took to be with them. He spoke words of encouragement. He invited one to take a risk, even while he was already risking everything. Peter jumped out of the boat, became afraid and sank. Jesus took his hand and led him back into the boat. Peter failed, but at least he tried.
We are baptized in deep waters. God sends us on voyages. Sometimes storms will come, waves will seethe and rocks will threaten. But we have been called and sent by God, who watches over us.
Prayer
Dear God, stir us to trust you enough to go where you send us. When we then meet unforeseen storms and dangers come upon us, give us the courage to take the risks you ask us to take. And hold us up, always hold us up, through your Son, our Lord. Amen.