“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)


Trust. Where does that come from? How do we know we’ll have enough of it when the time comes?

Like the apostles, we can find ourselves out on the water when a strong wind comes up. Suddenly we’re frightened. In fact, we’re not sure we’re going to make it. Today’s gospel is a study in placing trust in God, even when we have our doubts.

The apostles had set out on the Sea of Galilee to fish, planning to return to shore with their catch. (Life as usual.) But a storm came up and suddenly things turned dangerous. (Also life as usual.) When the apostles caught sight of someone on the water, they panicked until they realized it was Jesus. It was only when the apostles, Peter especially, kept their focus on Him that the storm subsided and they returned safely to shore.

In Old Testament stories, the sea symbolized chaos and danger. So Jesus walking on water is a complete reversal—an expression of divine mastery over the universe and an invitation to place our trust in God no matter what.

Friend, having doubts is part of life, something we all experience at times. But trusting in God is the greater part of who we are. Faith is what makes the difference. When Jesus invites us to draw closer, he isn’t saying the winds won’t blow. He’s saying that regardless of circumstance, He has our back. We can have faith that nothing is ever going to separate us from the love of God.