”Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.“
Matthew 14:22-33 NLT
As Jesus ministry accelerates, so does the assault upon it. John, the baptizer, was needlessly murdered to satisfy Herod’s pride and his lust. History celebrates Stephen as the first martyr to the Christian cause, and indeed he was. But John was the first collateral damage. He was a needless victim and Jesus knew that the suffering would be great. To this end it makes sense that he was contemplative and wishing to be alone. He did a very human thing, which was to walk in the chaos, which reflected the situation. This must have been foremost on his mind as he approached his timid disciples who would be purposefully targeted. Peter demonstrated the triumph and the concern. Walking on the water would be easy. Staying above it would be difficult. Not because of the water but because of the heart. If they were going to face what was to come, their hearts had to be facing toward Christ. Afterall, John was killed collaterally. How much more faith would they need as they would be assaulted purposefully and with malice. It is an important reminder how important it is to keep our faith and our heart with Christ. It is equally important for us to remember how he is moved by our situations and shares in our troubles.
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