Have you ever noticed it is in the middle of the night that our thoughts unravel. It’s then our minds go places they don’t ever go in the day time.
The evening shadows tend to cause us to fear and imagine all sorts of things. This was no different for the disciples.
We find the disciples in a boat at sea in Matthew 14. Scripture tells us the boat was in the middle of the sea, the water was rough and the wind was contrary (NKJV). It was quite the storm.
Scripture also tells us it was the fourth watch of the night, so it was 3-6AM, the time when darkness is thick and hovering over everyone.
Looking out, the disciples see someone walking out to them, and their response is, “It’s a ghost!” (verse 26, NKJV)
They were as human as we are, and they, too, imagined the worst in the midst of the darkness.
It was Jesus Himself walking out to them, to calm their fears and take control of the situation.
We know the familiar story. Peter eagerly says to the Lord to command him to walk out to Him on the water.
Jesus’ responds, “Come.”
Plain and simple. “Come.”
We all know what happens. Peter steps out of the boat, he takes his eyes off of Jesus and sees the storm, he begins to sink.
We tend to focus on this part of the story. Peter’s doubt. The story reminds us to stay focused and keep our eyes on the Lord when we navigate the challenges of life.
But a recent read brought something new to light that I had not ever considered before.
Peter, the one who always got himself into a situation. He was the one who often spoke and acted quickly.
He may have been the impetuous one but, he was the only one who got out of the boat to walk towards Jesus. That right there is something to admire and desire.
“Only by walking with God can we hope to find the path that leads to life. That is what it means to be a disciple. After all — aren’t we ‘followers of Christ’? Then by all means, let’s actually follow him. Not ideas about him. Not just his principles. Him.” (John Eldredge)
This week I found myself challenged by Peter.
Will we walk towards, and with, Jesus
even if no one walks with us?
During times when we may feel overwhelmed or fearful, we need to bring ourselves back to the foundational truths which will always keep us steady. These truths are not cliches, they are the very words of life. You will be encouraged by Lois Flowers’ post, What to Remember When You’re Anxious About the Road Ahead HERE.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
Photo by Patrick Fore on Unsplash
