Jesus’ Life: Chapter 8 – Jesus’ Ministry In Galilee (Part 3)
After Jesus miraculously fed five thousand people, he sent his disciples ahead by boat, across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum. He then dismissed the crowd and went alone to the mountaintop to pray.
When the disciples were a few miles out to sea, sailing against a headwind, Jesus suddenly appeared in front of them, walking on the water. Thinking it was a ghost, they cried out in fear but Jesus spoke to them saying, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid”.
Seeing it was Jesus, Simon Peter said, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water”. Jesus replied, “Come”.
Simon Peter got out of the boat and began to walk towards him but, fearful of the wind and waves, he grew frightened and started to sink.
Simon Peter cried out to Jesus, “Lord, save me,” Jesus stretched out his hand and took hold of Simon Peter saying, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” They both got into the boat, the wind died down and the disciples paid homage to Jesus, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God”. (Matthew 14:22-33, Mark 6:45-52, Luke 6:16-21)
Thought
Jesus had power over even the elements; he could walk on the sea and calm the wind. Peter could at first walk on the sea but as soon as his faith in Jesus diminished, fearing the waves, he started to sink.
If our daily focus is on the material world, our faith will also sink like Simon Peter. We must nourish our faith daily, through prayer.
Reflection
Lord Jesus, strengthen my faith so that I will neither fear nor doubt you. Grant me the strength of your hand to help others who are afraid, like Simon Peter.
Prayer: Faith (St Benedict)
Gracious and Holy Father,
give us the wisdom to discover You,
the intelligence to understand You,
the diligence to seek after You,
the patience to wait for You,
eyes to behold You,
a heart to meditate upon You,
and a life to proclaim You,
through the power of the Spirit of Jesus, our Lord. Amen.
