Then he made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea.
When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid."
Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water."
He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus.
But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"
After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."
Sometimes the storms of our own life can be ferocious. Financial difficulties, death, sickness, disease, turbulent relationships and addictions all seem to create a perfect storm. In these times Jesus calls us to have the faith of Peter, step out in the midst of the storm and keep our eyes him. We can do great things when our eyes are fixed on Jesus, take them off and you will start to sink.
Notice that there were 12 people on the boat and only one had the faith to get out. Would that have been you? Would you step out of the boat? Have the faith to reach over the bow and keep your eyes on Jesus. Maybe today you are in the midst of a storm, listen to Jesus "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid."
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