Walking On Water

Every once in awhile, Collin asks me to read from his Children's Bible. He is particularly drawn to the story titled, "Jesus Walks on Water." Matthew 14; Mark 6; John 6. We've read the story so many times that the pages now open to it.

"Jesus made the disciples get into the boat. He had them go ahead of him to Bethsaida. He went up on a mountainside to pray. When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake. Jesus was alone on land. He saw the disciples pulling hard on the oars. The wind was blowing against them. Jesus went out to the disciples. He walked on the lake. They saw him walking on the lake. They thought he was a ghost. They were terrified. Right away he said, "Be brave! It is I. Don't be afraid." "Lord, is it you?" Peter asked. "Tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," Jesus said. So Peter got out of the boat. He walked on the water to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid. He began to sink. He cried, "Lord! Save me!" Right away Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. When they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those in the boat worshiped Jesus. they said, "You really are the Son of God."

I wonder if Collin is drawn to this story for the same reasons as I...that we both can relate to Peter? First Peter questions, and then demands proof. Then he doubts. Finally he is left with no other option that to cry for help. If only he could trust...unconditionally, without proof...have faith in that which he cannot understand.

I'm actually encouraged that even the people closest to Jesus sometimes questioned, doubted...and lost their faith. Faith in the unknown and unseen is often difficult. Collin...may you continue on this spiritual journey...questioning, demanding, doubting...and finally, hopefully someday...finding your own answers, content in however they happen to come to you.