Little Faith

If you have grown up in the church (or not) you probably haven't escaped without hearing the story of Jesus walking on the water.  Reading this story is sometimes like reading my own life of faith.  Whenever the Lord asks me to do something, I pull a Peter...


Matthew's version: During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.

My version:  You want me to do what?  No, that's way to scary.  Surely this isn't from the Lord?  It's probably Satan trying to trip me up...

But Jesus immediately said to them; "Take courage! It is I.  Don't be afraid."

Okay everything is pointing toward God.  My heart is changing, everything is falling into place, this has to be the Lord.  Maybe I can do this thing he's asked of me but, I need some proof.  I need him to tell me one more time. Then I will do it.

"Come," he said.

Okay, it's definitely the Lord.  I will do what you ask Lord.  I'm so excited! I may be a little scared but I know I can do it with your help - for you didn't give me a spirit of fear!  I am following the Lord, I know I'm in his will, what a great feeling. I know he wants this for my life.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"

Lord, was I really supposed to do this?  I could've sworn I heard you telling me to go for it.  But now the excitement has worn off and I feel defeated.  Nothing is going right.  You need to remind me again...is this really what you want for me?

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"

Sorry, Lord. You're right, my faith is even tinier than a mustard seed. Not even visible. I'm ashamed of my lack of faith when your call was so clear. Forgive me.

And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."

Truly it was you, the Son of God! You are my confidence and my hope. The Lord be exalted!

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This week's verse:

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"

Hebrews 13:5-6