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Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves, churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed Peter’s hand. Then Jesus said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?” They both climbed into the boat, the disciples having watched the whole thing, worshiped Jesus, saying, “This is it! You are God’s Son for sure!”
We all have someone in our lives whom we think walks on water because of something he or she did for us or a loved one: the teacher who finally got through; the doctor who saved a life; the cop who came to the rescue; the counsellor who helped turn things around; the friend who lent a helping hand; the lawyer who restored a good name; the neighbour with a generous spirit; the foe with a forgiving heart.
One thing all of these walkers have in common is the ability to bring order to a chaotic situation. The seas of our minds and hearts are rolling; we reach out; allow ourselves to trust; and are offered a sign of peace.
Being dazed and confused, frightened and in pain is not how Jesus wants us to live. Think of the words of Jesus we repeat each time we gather at Eucharist: “My peace I leave you; my peace I give to you”.
Remember Christ’s peace is yours for the taking. That is the miracle of Christian living. Problems and challenges don’t disappear but our fear of them does. Instead of Peter’s panic, “Master, save me!”; our response can be modelled after Peter’s faith, “Lord, command me to come to you”. We can remain calm even in the midst of chaos. We can, in fact, walk on water. Believe that, and you will have plenty of peace to offer others.