For July 28, 2024
Walking On Water
The Gospel stories which involve Jesus walking on the water either indicate rough seas or Peter attempting the meet Jesus on the water.
The Gospel Lesson for this coming Sunday includes the full account of Jesus feeding the five thousand with two loaves and five fish.
Many of us are familiar with the story.
However, if it is the first time a person hears this amazing story of plenty and community sharing, they might wonder how such a thing is possible. Ultimately it comes down to the concept of equitable living - everybody is welcome, and everybody belongs. No one has more than they need, and no one has less than they need.
In addition to the feeding of the five thousand, we encounter Jesus walking on water late at night. The disciples are tired after everything they have done over the last few days and weeks. They have been on a pilgrimage of ministering and learning; they were tasked to feed a multitude; they have witnessed Jesus’ invitation unshackled by boundaries.
They have found rest on the boat and are making their way to the opposite shore. Strangely they did not wait for Jesus to join them. Maybe he told them to go ahead. And yet, did the disciples not wonder how he was going to catch up with them?
When Jesus is ready, he simply follows the most direct path to meet up with the boat. No going around the lake; no finding a different boat and crew; no delaying till morning. Jesus steps out onto the lake with clear purpose and direction. Of course, to make the story more interesting Jesus undertakes the walk after dark. And to top it off the water becomes choppier and rougher.
I invite you to look at the picture I found to accompany the letter this week. Note the skies are clear, the light is dawning, and the water is calm. I like this image. It speaks to me of the calmness that we may find in Jesus’ presence in our lives. It reminds me that Jesus is present in life in both tumultuous periods and peaceful times. While we may think that Jesus is lagging and showing up late for the occasion, we, through our faith journey, discover that Jesus is there – calm, consistent and never far away.
He will find us across the seas whether they are rough or calm – no detours, but a straight and steady path. May this give us strength in both our personal lives and ministries and in our communal life and work.
– Rev. Deborah