Months ago I made my way down the dirt road I live on, walking and chatting with God. Am I always such a good multitasker? Absolutely not. But on this occasion one prayer kept seeping through the walls of my mind: "Lord, help me step out of the boat."
Do we ever stop to think about what Peter must have been experiencing in the moment Jesus invites him to step onto the water? Imagine boating far from shore under a night sky. The wind is furious, kicking up waves which send the boat moving like a toy in a toddler's bathtub. In a moment like that, I can imagine the awareness of lacking control is starting to sink in. Amidst the chaos, fear rises among the crew as what appears to be a ghost-like figure is walking on water in the distance.
Jesus speaks first reminding them not to be afraid. Then Peter responds with a bold request: "Lord, if it's you, tell me to come to you on the water." In a moment of desperation and uncertainty, Peter tells Jesus to give him an opportunity to step out in faith. This is when Jesus extends the invitation to come. When Peter accepted, he was a walking miracle. Literally! It is when his eyes came off Jesus and onto the circumstances that Jesus catches him and says, "You of little faith. Why did you doubt?" One might think that this is it- he blew it. How could he doubt when God was so clearly revealing himself? May I gently remind you that there are still two verses left of the story.
Preceding what just happened they entered the boat once more, the wind subsided, and those in the boat began to worship Jesus. Peter may have doubted, but the disciples who had seen what took place decided Jesus was worthy enough to be praised. Peter may have felt scared and unsure, but he took the faithful step anyways. When we say yes to Jesus there is room for miracles to occur, his glory to shine through our weaknesses, and for people to come to know him.
I'm thankful for a God that is with me both when I step out onto uncharted waters and when I am reaching my hand up in desperation as I'm sinking in the waves. He is faithful. Will you step out of the boat?