Friday, August 7, 2020  

Today’s Scripture Reading  |  Matthew 14:22–33
Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. And early in the morning he came walking toward them on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, 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 toward 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 worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” (NRSV)

Reflection
My favorite parts of the parables are always the parts where the disciples second guess Jesus. Every time Jesus asks something of them, somebody comes up with an excuse not to do it. I get that. 

Looking at the world around me, it is difficult to trust in my faith. It feels like I’m in a boat out at sea, the waves growing higher and higher, and it seems easier to just hope it will pass. But Jesus won’t allow me to wait out the storm. He demands a courageous response and so does this imperfect world we live in. The gospel promises the storm will pass, but not before we come out on the water. Like the disciples, we must have the courage to step out into the waves of the unknown.

Prayer
Almighty God, forgive my uncertainty. Grant me the courage to follow you out onto the waters. Amen. 

Written by Allie Green, Director, Urban Youth Mission

Reflection and prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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