“And early in the morning he came walking toward them on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’ 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, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’” Matthew 14:25-33
These verses cause me to pause, to take a moment to assess my personal discipleship as well as those God has called me to lead. First, do I put myself into a position, an attitude, that allows Jesus to approach me early in the morning? Second, do I recognize Jesus when he draws close? Third, how could one categorize my response, fear or gratitude? When Jesus responds do I recognize Him, do I hear Him” Do I trust Him? Fourth, am I bold enough to ask him to tell me to do something audacious, something impossible? Do I do it, all the way to completion? Or do I get scared? Pay attention here – fear really gets in the way. Fear, lack of confidence in the Lord causes me/us to shrink away. Fifth, are we at that point faithful enough to call out to God to save us? Or do we attempt to tread water in our own strength? For how long? That is a great question, not only for individuals but congregations as well; how long will we tread water in our own strength thinking we can save ourselves? Know, that when we do call out Jesus is there and will immediately catch us up. Sixth, at that point, in that moment, will we worship him and recognize him for who he is? Will we continue to do so? Oh Lord save me, save us, snatch us up!