RBWords

     Of the many signs and miracles worked by Jesus as a demonstration of his divine power, the episode in which he walked on the sea has stood out in popular imagination over the centuries.  The sheer physical feat is startling enough, but the evangelist Matthew has used it in a way to accomplish more than one preaching goal!  The first and more stylistic goal is that Matthew tends to relate stories of Jesus in pairs.  Walking on the sea is "paired" with the multiplication of the loaves and fishes which precedes it.  More importantly, however, the two stories are a demonstration of Jesus' divine power.  [At the end of today's passage, this power is further demonstrated by the impact of sick people touching "the tassel on his cloak" and being healed!].  

     The walking on the sea takes place in a storm!  In the midst of the storm Jesus comes with the message, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid!"  This message is the one most spoken by God to humanity throughout the scriptures.  It is also a message that we humans have a tough time accepting when we're trying to keep our boat afloat!  Peter responds with a typical human request:  "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water!"  [I am reminded of the saying, "Be careful what you pray for - you may get it!]  This part of the story is designed to remind the disciples that if they have faith, they will do the same things as Jesus, but they must not doubt his power.  Ultimately it is Jesus who enables Peter to walk on the sea and it is Jesus who pulls Peter out of the water!  It is also Jesus who calms the storm.  The message to the church is pretty clear!  At least the disciples acknowledge Jesus by saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."  Of course, this bit of faith will fade once they get to dry land, but the lesson is still there for all of us!  "It is I; do not be afraid!" and "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"  AMEN