Sunday, August 10

By Richard James, Council of Twelve Apostles

Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” …And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

—Matthew 14:28–31, 33 NRSV

As we try to encourage our grandson to take his first few steps, it is heart-warming to see the support of family and hear words of encouragement. We are there to hold him, catch him, and applaud his efforts, until the moment that he takes two or three faltering steps. Then there is no stopping him! What a remarkable step in his development. He did it! He can walk “all by himself.”

When Peter is thinking about taking his first step onto the water, it is Jesus’ encouraging word, “Come,” that helps him. Fixing his eyes on Jesus, Peter makes some progress. But, as the strong wind distracts him, he begins to be afraid and starts to sink. He cries in desperation. Jesus reaches out and catches him. Then they get back into the boat.

Is our action similar to Jesus’ when we help our grandson learn to walk? “Come,” we say, and we are there ready to catch him whenever he starts to fall. We know that with perseverance and encouragement he will make the life-changing steps.

Being a disciple of Jesus Christ is not easy. We need to help each other learn to walk “the way” of Jesus. By holding each other in prayer, support, and accountability, we encourage one another. We fix our eyes on Jesus. If we fall, we trust that Jesus and our companion disciples are there for us.

Discipleship is about taking steps of faith. We never stop learning. At first we may take small steps, and then we learn how to trust God more. So what “life-changing” steps of faith can you take today? What life-changing steps of faith are you taking for the mission of Jesus Christ? Jesus says to you, “Come.”

Prayer for Peace Faithful God, you are there for us when we falter. You encourage us to try to have faith. Help us encourage others. Journey by our side, God, as we take steps for the mission of Christ.

Spiritual Practice: Develop Disciples to Serve As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called to respond to people and their needs. Pray about using your skills to help another person. As you feel affirmed, thank God for the opportunity to be a responding, serving disciple while you move into the outward journey.

Peace Covenant Today, God, I will journey in faith and encourage others to have faith.