Faint-Heart?

Matthew 14:24-26 – Meanwhile, the boat was far out to sea when the wind came up against them and they were battered by the waves. At about four o'clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them walking on the water. They were scared out of their wits. "A ghost!" they said, crying out in terror. (MSG)

Again this year it was my "job" to deliver my young granddaughter to her swimming lessons at the lake. And again it was the most entertaining part of my day!

"Fish!!! I'm not getting into the water with no fish!"
"I'm not wearing a wet life jacket!"
"You want me to do what?"
"My mommy doesn't like for me to go into the deep water."

Brutally honest, the seven-year-olds were seriously re-thinking their swimming lesson commitments! The teachers encouraged, coaxed, cajoled, pleaded, and finally ordered those squirming little souls into the bay. Several days later, every one of them made the grade. Their personal fear had been overcome by the trust they had developed in their swimming coaches.

Matthew 14:27-31 – But Jesus was quick to comfort them. "Courage, it's me. Don't be afraid." Peter, suddenly bold, said "Master, if it's really you, call me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come ahead." Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, "Master, save me!" Jesus didn't hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, "Faint-heart, what got into you?" (MSG)

Every one of us has met the deep water at one time or another. Life is full of crisis, catastrophe, and calamity. But in the midst of the deep, drawing us through the waves to Himself — there is Jesus. He may find us in a faint-hearted state, but he never leaves us there.

Prayer: Dearest Jesus, forgive us for looking ahead in fear. When we lose our nerve, please grab onto us, as You did Peter, and draw us through the waves of life toward Yourself. Amen.