Be Not Afraid

Matthew 14:22-33

The disciples were terrorized when their boat was battered, tormented, by the waves. The wind was like a demonic adversary fighting against them. Their fear of otherworldly beings was heightened by a “ghost” walking across the waves toward them. Then Jesus said, “It is I. Do not be afraid.”

Jesus’ earthly life is bracketed by warnings against fear. In our lives, fear can paralyze us, and turn us inward in unhealthy ways.

Peter courageously obeyed the command of Jesus when he sought to walk toward Jesus in the midst of the storm. Yet when his fear grew, threatening to engulf him, Jesus stretched out his hand to save him.

Jesus asked Peter, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” This helped Peter to understand why he sank. His inner focus on the reality of Jesus was replaced by his outer occupation on his outer, threatening, circumstances. This happens with us as well, both individually and in the aggregate (corporately).

The invitation is for us individually, and as member of this church. What are we afraid of? What are we doing here? In whom will we place our trust?

Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.