There is a story that tells of a famous French tight rope walker, who’s biggest claim to fame was crossing over Niagara Falls on a tight rope. He had performed this feat several times when he came back across pushing a wheel barrow. He asked the crowd that had gathered if they believed he could do it again, and the crown cheered. He asked if they believed he could do it while pushing someone in the wheelbarrow, and they cheered even louder. Then he asked for volunteers, and all went silent.
Lets take a moment to to look at Matthew 14:22-33
[22] And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. [23] And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. [24] But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. [25] And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. [26] And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. [27] But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. [28] And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. [29] And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. [30] But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. [31] And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? [32] And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. [33] Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.
Its always easy to believe someone when we don’t have anything to lose. The story of Jesus walking on water has always been one of my favorites as we see 12 disciples who claimed to follow Jesus, but only one willing to get out of the boat.
Often we are like those disciples afraid to get out of the boat. Its easy to trust the Lord with the small stuff, but when it comes to the big things we would rather keep our fate in our own hands. Today, let us strive to follow Peter’s example and get out of the boat with our Lord.
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