May 23, 2019 – Matthew 14:25-27

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!” Matthew 14:25-27.

After the disciples told Jesus how Herod had beheaded John the baptist, Jesus wanted solitude.  Yet the people followed Him, and He healed the sick and the lame. Then Jesus fed the five thousand men and those with them.  

Jesus sought refreshment in solitary prayer with His Father in Heaven. He made the disciples get into the boat and dismissed the people.  He continued up into the mountain.  At three am, the disciples saw a figure walking on the water and thought it was a ghost. 

Jesus called out to them the words we all need.  “Don’t be afraid, take courage, I am here!” Oh, how we need to hear these words when we are heart-sick and tired of the pain and suffering we are called on to bear.  Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29.

 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27.  Peace is the third Fruit of the Spirit.  Jesus and His Love lives in our hearts when we accept Him, and assures us, “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. Matthew 14:28-29.