Shortly before dawn 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. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. 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!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith, ”he said, “why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:25-31

After two days of teaching by the Sea of Galilee, Jesus sought solitude, so He sent the disciples ahead, by boat, across the sea. During the voyage, a fierce storm arose, causing the disciples great fear as the boat was tossed around. Amidst the chaos, they spotted a figure approaching them. When the figure drew near enough to be recognized as Jesus, Simon called out to Him. Simon was beginning to doubt Jesus and his faith had been wavering. He called out to Jesus, “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.” Jesus held out His hand and called for Simon to come to Him. Simon got out of the boat and began to walk on water toward Jesus. Jesus told Simon to keep his eyes on Him but Simon looked around and seeing the swelling waves, he began to sink. As he went under the water, he called for Jesus to save him. Jesus reached down and pulled him up. Jesus said to Simon “you of little faith, why did you doubt?”

Every Sunday morning, I attend church to listen attentively to the sermon. Our pastor excels in delivering the message, explaining the Scriptures, and connecting them to daily life. Engaging in worship songs, I sense the presence of the Holy Spirit in the room, revitalizing my spiritual energy. This experience leaves me prepared and enthusiastic to embrace the upcoming week, eager to honor God through my actions.

And then life happens. My “storm” comes. Sometimes it is a little thing causing annoyance and an unexpected expense: the sink has a leak, the lawn mower will not start. Or something major: a serious medical diagnosis, a loss of a loved one. How do I react? I start to feel like Simon. Fear and doubt sneak in and the Sunday morning lifting experience is gone. I begin to sink.

Then I fall on my knees, focus my eyes on Jesus and pray for guidance. Jesus is always there to reach out His hand and pull me up.

Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. Psalm 73:23

Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge. Psalm 16:1

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

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