Jesus Walks on Water John 6:16-21 // Matt 14:22-33 // Mark 6:45-52
16That evening Jesus’ disciples went down to the shore to wait for him.17But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn’t come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum.18Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough.19They had rowed three or four miles when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified,20but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here!”21Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination!
I like Matthew’s version of this story so much better because he has a lot more detail in it (Peter walks on the water too). John has chosen to leave the details out, which makes the lessons very clear: when you are in a storm, do not be afraid, the Lord is there. Notice Jesus’ words, they are no a suggestion, they are a command. Without Jesus the disciples were afraid of the storm, and then they were even afraid of Jesus. We are not to live in fear. We will have storms, we can all attest to that, but we are commanded “Don’t be afraid. I am here!”
Lord, change me and give me faith that I may trust you and face storms without fear, because I know you are here. *obbs*
