In the Waves

Matthew 14:28-31

And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”

Tom Wright, Matthew for Everyone (Vol. 1)

If the previous story (the feeding of the five thousand) can be read as a picture of Christian vocation, this story can be read as a picture of the life of faith—or, rather, the life of half-faith, faith mixed with fear and doubt, which is the typical state of so many Christians, as it was with the disciples (189)

There are many times when Jesus asks us to do what seems impossible. How can we even begin to do the task he’s called us to? . . . Of course, if like Peter we look at the waves being lashed by the wind, we will conclude that it is indeed impossible. What we are called to do—it’s so basic and obvious, but so hard to do in practice—is to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, and our ears open for his encouragement (even if it does contain some rebuke as well). And our wills and hearts must be ready to do what he says, even if it seems crazy at the time (191).

A. Orendorff

If the feeding of the five thousand teaches us what ministry is all about, then the story of Peter in the waves teaches us what discipleship involves. In reference to the first, ministry means allowing Jesus to break whatever measly inadequacies we posses in order to meet the overwhelming needs stacked all around us. Likewise, as it concerns the second, discipleship means allowing Jesus to meet us “in the waves” with our inadequacies (again) exposed, fearfully overwhelmed by the faith deflating odds set firmly against us.

What both of these stories teach us is that being near Jesus means being uncomfortable. Following Jesus means being exposed. Whatever we choose to call our inadequacies—whether, limitations, short-comings, or failures—Jesus is in the business taking what we have and making something new.

Sinking we cry out, “Lord, save me.” And though his answer rebukes us, he still reaches out his hand and takes hold.