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 Turning our attention to the symbol of water, a substance deeply intertwined with purification, life, and healing, we will experience the transformative power of Jesus. Jesus frequently uses water as a conduit for his literal and metaphorical restorative touch. As we delve into these passages, let us consider how water, in its fluidity, reflects the flowing grace and life-giving presence of Jesus. May these readings remind us that, even in our own periods of dryness and spiritual thirst, Jesus offers a wellspring of healing, washing away our burdens and renewing us from within. A collective reflection on God’s grace and our chances for renewal Friday, April 4, 2025 |
Safety in his presence Matthew 14:22-33 You know how disconcerting it can be if you’ve been out on the water during a storm or heavy wind and waves. If you haven’t, imagine why you don’t want to be. There is no place to go, at least not quickly; everywhere around you looks the same – equally bad, even terrifying. Picture a dark, stormy night when the disciples were probably hoping for a bit of calm and rest away from the crowds. The middle of a lake seemed like an ideal place to get away from all the people. Instead, there was no rest; their boat was being rocked by the waves, the deck was getting sprayed, and most likely, everyone was doing what they could to keep the boat afloat. Jesus, who had been alone praying on land, literally walked out on that water to help them. Just 6 chapters ago in Matthew, Jesus was on the boat with them, sleeping when a storm rolled in. They had to wake him and wondered how he could be so calm as they seemed sure they were all going to die. Jesus, with them on the boat, calmed the storm, and they were amazed. They maybe would have been able to easily believe he could save them again, but he wasn’t with them. This time, he walked out to them – ON THE WATER. Despite this being the most unexpected thing ever, Peter said, “If it’s you, Jesus, tell me to come out there too.” And he did. Then, despite his initial belief, Peter took his eyes off Jesus, saw the waves and turmoil all around, and began to sink. As Jesus does for us all, he reaches out a hand. He saved Peter, and he saves us. We have moments of tremendous, maybe even bold, unshakeable belief that can, in the next moment, be utterly shaken by the circumstances we find ourselves in – surrounded by storms and without solid ground. Jesus knows we will have doubts and that circumstances will capture our attention. Still, he perpetually reaches out a hand to pull us up and offers us the safety of his presence. Only Jesus can dissuade our doubts, take away our worries, comfort our minds, and heal our hearts despite all that is swirling around – keep your eyes on Jesus (the author and perfecter of our faith)! What captures your attention and makes you take your eyes off Jesus? What storms create doubt in you? Prayer for today: Jesus, thank you for knowing us so well that you know we have doubts and circumstances that will often get our attention before you, but you are still near reaching out a hand. Thank you for the extraordinary lengths you will go to to be more present and powerful than the storms and waves we will encounter. Jesus, “I believe, help me with my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24) By Molly Fisher |
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