and the reassurance of Jesus’ saving hand amidst the chaos.
Peter walks on water
The story of Peter walking on the water and sinking is rich in spiritual meaning and a profound example of trust, doubt, and grace. Let’s reflect together.
This account is found in Matthew 14:22-33:
Reflective Scripture Passage
Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
Shortly before dawn, Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
“Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
Reflection
- Peter’s Courage and Faith: Peter’s willingness to step out of the boat shows tremendous faith. He trusts Jesus enough to take a step into the impossible. When have you felt called by Jesus to “step out of the boat” in your life? What did that moment feel like?
- The Storm and Doubt: As Peter walks, his attention shifts from Jesus to the wind and waves around him. Fear overtakes him, and he begins to sink. This is a powerful reminder that when our focus drifts from Christ to the chaos around us, doubt creeps in. What are the “winds and waves” in your life right now that distract you from trusting in Jesus?
- “Lord, Save Me!”: Peter’s simple, desperate prayer reminds us that Jesus is always ready to save. We don’t need long, elaborate words—just a sincere cry for help. When have you called out to Jesus in desperation? What did His response look like?
- Jesus’ Immediate Response: Notice that Jesus doesn’t hesitate. He immediately reaches out and catches Peter. Even when Peter’s faith falters, Jesus remains faithful. How does it feel to know that Jesus will always be there to catch you when you fall?
- The Calm After the Storm: Once Jesus and Peter are in the boat, the wind dies down. Peace follows trust. How can you invite Jesus into your “boat” to calm the storms in your life? Or walk on water?
Guided Prayer
Take a moment to imagine this scene. Close your eyes and place yourself in the story. Picture the dark night, the stormy sea, and the boat rocking in the waves. Visualize Jesus walking on the water toward you.
- Hear His voice saying, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
- Step out of the boat, and feel the water beneath your feet. Keep your eyes on Him.
- Now, as the winds rise and fear takes hold, feel yourself begin to sink.
- Cry out, “Lord, save me!”
- Experience Jesus’ hand grasping yours, lifting you up. Look into His eyes. What does He say to you?
Spiritual Exercise
- Journal Your Thoughts: Write down the moments in your life where you felt like Peter—stepping out in faith, doubting, sinking, and being saved. Reflect on how Jesus has been present through it all.
- Prayer of Trust: Pray for the grace to trust Jesus more fully in the midst of life’s storms. Ask for courage to step out of the boat again and again.
- Act of Faith: Consider one area of your life where Jesus is calling you to greater trust. Take one step today—no matter how small—to respond to that call.
Closing Encouragement
Remember, sinking doesn’t mean failing. It’s part of learning to trust Jesus more deeply. He is always near, ready to stretch out His hand and catch you, just as He did for Peter. Keep your eyes on Him, and you will find peace even in the storm.
May the image and reflection bring you inspiration and peace.
