But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted.

Matthew 14:30

One of the things I love about the Gospels is how honest they are in their portrayal of the disciples. Not only does this fact argue strongly for their historical reliability, but it also helps us to feel a connection with the first and closest followers of Jesus.

Can't you relate to Peter? On the one hand, he has such faith in Jesus that he actually got out of the boat and began to walk on water. On the other hand, his fear soon got the better of him, and he began to sink. This sounds so much like me, though I'm not sure I'd have enough faith to get out of the boat in the first place. Yet there have been times in my life when I have taken big steps of faith. At the first sign of problems, I can panic, as if God had somehow abandoned me, even though I know he's reliable.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: Have you ever experienced something like Peter, where you trusted God in daring ways and, at around the same time, faltered because of fear or doubt? Why did this happen? What helps you to have strong and consistent trust in the Lord?

PRAYER: Gracious Lord, thank you for this wonderful story. I am so grateful for Matthew's honest portrayal of Peter because I am so much like him. You know how I can trust you in one moment and doubt you in the next. I too can become afraid when I see the wind and the waves approaching.

Forgive me, Lord, for my lack of faith. How easily I can forget your amazing grace to me! Help me to trust you more and more each day. When difficulties come my way, may I turn to you in faith.

Thank you, Lord, for choosing as your disciples people like Peter . . . and me! Amen.