Greatness: Matthew 14-20ਨਮੂਨਾ

Walking on water is one of the more famous miracles that Jesus performed. While an impressive demonstration of Jesus’ divinity and His command over nature, the story also captures three insights that are helpful for our faith today.

Firstly, Jesus continually engages with the crowds, teaching and caring for their needs. He also regularly disengages and seeks quiet time with His Father. This constant push and pull shows that Jesus was not held captive by the adoration of His followers, and nor was He a wise, yet aloof, religious teacher.

Secondly, Peter’s response to seeing Jesus walk on water was to come out to meet Jesus on the water. This courage, even if temporary, demonstrates a faith that is vibrant and life changing for Peter. Peter’s struggle with doubt is a good analogy for us today, as often we may start out full of faith and courage, but sometimes struggle along the way with doubt or weakened faith.

Thirdly, when Peter and Jesus step back into the boat, the wind stops, and the disciples respond by declaring that Jesus, “truly you are the Son of God,” and are filled with worship.

These three insights help show us what the healthy following of Jesus looks like. It’s spending time engaging with others and having quiet time. It’s knowing that at different times we are filled with faith and see God do amazing things. At other times, it’s wrestling with doubt. And, when we see the Lord at work in our lives, we respond with awe and worship.

Today, ponder this: Which of these insights encourages you in your walk with Jesus today?