Beware the Wind

Do you truly believe all things are possible?

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 towards 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 worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’ - Matthew 14:28-33

Peter doesn't answer Jesus' question.  Why did you doubt?

Why do any of us doubt?

Maybe it is because we let our minds take control.  This can't be, the mind tells us, and so we shake off our faith and fall back into what we know is real.

The interesting thing about this is that Peter asked Jesus for the ability to walk on water and when it was granted he was actually able to do it.  But the strong wind frightened him.

There will always be something to challenge us when we are walking on water.  Jesus will grant us the strength and courage we need to tackle the impossible, but it is up to us to stay focused on our faith and not be rattled by the obstacles thrown in our way.

We may only get one chance to aim really high, so if we check ourselves and shoot for a more achievable target, that may be what we have to live with.

Peter aimed high and he could have succeeded, but he didn't feel worthy or capable and he lost footing.  At least, though, he tried for the impossible.

So, if we can learn anything from Peter, it shouldn't be that we should be more realistic.  Instead it should be to have faith in shooting for the moon.  Through Christ, all things are possible. 

More to come...