Jesus Holds Us Up

August 13, 2017

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” – Matthew 14:30

Peter takes a chance, he steps out in faith, and his doubts and fears get in the way. Doesn’t that happen to all of us?

When I am troubled or afraid, I often picture myself sinking below the waves, my hand reaching out and Jesus grabbing onto it. That image in my mind can often be enough to ease my fears.

But I have come a long way. There was a time when I would not even get out of the boat. Nowadays, I will at least put my big toe in the water to check things out. And sometimes, I will dive right in.

Either way, deep underneath, along with my fear, is that trust that Jesus is near. And the more I dive in, the more I trust.

For me, I don’t think the point is that we learn to walk on water. I think the point is that we need to get out of the boat in the first place, trusting that Jesus is holding us up all the time.

Dear Lord, thank you for calling me to step out in faith. Help me to remember that, no matter what fears I may have, you are there to grab my hand. Every time. Amen.