This is one of my favorite readings from Matthew.  This is the story of Peter’s walking on the water…until he has doubts…and sinks…and then Jesus saves him again….

Matthew 14:23 – “And after he dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray.”  As I reflect on this Gospel, the mental image I have is one of Jesus wrapped in prayer…alone…in communion with the Father…calm, deep, and silent…drinking in the power and wisdom shared with the Father.

During this prayer, Jesus comes to know more of who he is…the Son of God.  He comes to realize that this is a “teaching moment” for the disciples.  They will come to know more certainly of his power, his compassion, his mission.

Can’t you see the rocking, buffeted boat, bouncing on the water…and Jesus’ approach on the water!!  What a vision…to see the Master walking on water toward the frightened disciples….

And then the wonderful moments with Peter…first filled with belief and the power and strength that faith brings…then filled with doubt and the weakness and frailty that doubt brings….

Then the powerful, compassionate hand of Jesus reaching to save Peter…while the waves lick at his feet and scare him more.

“And when they (Jesus and Peter) got into the boat, the wind ceased.”  All is calm, the power and strength of Jesus has surrounded Peter and the other disciples.  “Truly you are the Son of God.”

What a “teachable moment” this is for us too….

“And when the men of that place recognized him, they sent round to all that region and brought to him all that were sick, and besought him that they might only touch the fringe of his garment; and as many as touched it were made well.” 

We, like Jesus, are to pray…to come to know God’s “mission and meaning” for us.  We, too, are to show forth God’s strength…and to ask for increased faith…and to have compassion on others…and to reach out again and again and again.

Thank you, Jesus, for showing us the way, the truth, and the life.  Help us to be open to your inspiration for our own continued growth and development and to be of assistance to others as we live out our lives today and always.  Amen.