Walking on Water

October 26, 2021

I like to think that Jesus was a complex person. I smile when I read gospel passages that mention that he went off by himself to pray. I appreciate stories that reveal his wide range of emotions.

When I read the story of Jesus walking on water, I read the entire story as his prayer. Jesus went off by himself on the mountain, then saw the boat was far off and being tossed, so he started walking in the dark of the night toward it. The words he then spoke to the disciples were all invitational –

Take courage.

Don’t be afraid.

Come.

Have faith.

Sometimes I imagine that Jesus walked on water because he was prayerfully practicing putting one foot in front of the other. Maybe it was more grounding than watching the wind and waves tossing the boat. Maybe the words he offered were the ones he’d just received in his own heart up on the mountain.

Our families lead complex lives. Our staff members navigate complex roles. Neighboring relationships are full of complexity. I’m so grateful that in the more challenging moments, we follow a complex Jesus who knew how to put one foot in front of the other and walk across the sea.

Love moves toward pain. Love says, I’m here. Take courage. Love walks on water because Love makes all things possible. This is why we have hope.

Walking on Water