The storm did not disappear before Peter stepped out of the boat. Faith began when he trusted that Jesus was greater than the waves beneath him. Matthew 14:22-33 reminds us that courage is found not in controlling the storm, but in recognizing the One who walks with us through it.
In Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Jesus reveals the surprising nature of God’s kingdom through parables of a mustard seed, yeast, hidden treasure, a pearl of great value, and a net. The kingdom may begin small and unseen, yet it transforms everything.
Isaiah 56:1, 6-8…“Thus says the Lord GOD, who gathers the outcasts of Israel, I will gather others to them besides those already gathered.” vs. 8 Some might wonder why so many of the Old Testament scriptures that are read in our congregations on a weekly basis come from the book of Isaiah. If we’ve been paying attention, the answer should be obvious. Isaiah was Jesus’ favorite! Not only was Isaiah the scroll that he chose to read when he came…
Matthew 14:28-33…“Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’” vs. 31 Whatever else might be said of Peter, Matthew wants us to know that he didn’t shy away from a challenge. When Jesus told him to get out of the boat and walk on the water, he actually did it. And what we often forget is that he was successful! He was able to imitate Jesus, and did…
Matthew 14:22-27…“But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’” vs.27 As Matthew tells the story, after the feeding of the 5000, Jesus had stayed behind for much needed prayer and meditation, and had sent the disciples back across the sea by themselves. When the winds increased and their boat was being battered by the waves, the disciples saw Jesus in the darkness walking toward them, and, thinking it was a ghost,…
I came for the Healing of Memories workshop for veterans, and I almost didn’t come because of the trauma I wrestle with, but your staff, the workshop leaders and the quiet and safe campus held me there and I’ve found a new sense of peace and healing.