Saturday, September 23, 2006

Jesus Walks on Water

16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, 17 where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. 18 A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. 19 they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were terrified. 20 But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid." 21 Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading. When they had rowed three or three and a half miles,

22 The next day the crowd that had stayed on the opposite shore of the lake realized that only one boat had been there, and that Jesus had not entered it with his disciples, but that they had gone away alone. 23 Then some boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the people had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks. 24 Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus.

One thing stands out here. When people first encounter Jesus doing something miraculous, fear is typical. Many people I witness to can see their need for Jesus, but are fearful of taking that first step and putting their trust in Him. I can imagine Him saying to them, "It is I; don't be afraid." Once people are willing to let Jesus in the boat, they will immediately reach where they are heading. He promises that you will pass from death to life, and He will give you a new heart. And, He will never let you down.

No comments: