Do you like to go swimming? I love going to pools and lakes and beaches. What kinds of things do you bring along to play in water? I happen to be a pretty good swimmer, and I am not afraid of being in the water. But I know people that struggle in the water… they just sink as they walk into the water.
Our story for this week involves water, and it’s a bit mysterious, and includes a boat and a storm. Someone actually walks on water!
After feeding a huge crowd, Jesus told His disciples to get into a boat and cross the lake while He went to pray alone. That night, a big storm came! The wind blew hard, the waves splashed everywhere, and the disciples were scared. Then something amazing happened. They saw someone walking on the water toward them!
At first they thought it was a ghost, but Jesus called out, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid."
Peter wanted to be sure it was really Jesus, so he said, "Lord, if it's you, tell me to come to you.” "Come," Jesus said.
Peter stepped out of the boat and began walking on the water! But when he looked at the strong wind and the big waves, he became frightened and started to sink. "Lord, save me!" Peter cried. Right away, Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. Then they climbed into the boat together, and the wind became calm. The disciples said, "Truly, you are the Son of God."
Everyone feels afraid sometimes. Even Jesus' closest friends were afraid during the storm.
The good news is that Jesus didn't wait until the disciples were brave before He came to help them. He came while they were still scared! Peter made a mistake, but Jesus didn't leave him alone. He reached out His hand and helped him.
That reminds us that Jesus is always with us… even when life feels stormy. Whether we're worried about school, making friends, being sick, or something at home, we can remember that Jesus never stops coming to help the people He loves. Jesus comes to us when we're afraid. He doesn't expect us to be perfect or fearless. He wants us to trust that He is always near, ready to help us.
What is something that sometimes makes you feel afraid?
How can you remember that Jesus is with you during hard times?
When you feel worried or afraid this week, pause and remember Jesus' words…
"Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.” Then say a short prayer, knowing that Jesus is always close by.
Dear Jesus,
Thank You for always being with us, even when we feel scared. Help us remember that You are stronger than any storm we face. Thank You for reaching out Your hand and loving us every day.
Amen.
Hope you’ll join me at Bella Quinn this Sunday!
Grace & Peace… Melissa
