When they had rowed three or three and a half miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water…
Walking on water? Another powerful demonstration of ability to dominate even the elements!
Should this be surprising? Isn’t this the very One who said, Let there be light…and there was light? The one who created life in the beginning out of the formless mass that was the earth?
What are students to learn from this sign?
Surely the Teacher doesn’t walk on water to impress with His skill. Instead He does so to create in us a vibrant faith in His power. That we might come to place our trust in Him to rule in every situation and circumstance of our lives!
Sadly, there is a tendency today to believe that Jesus has power, but is no longer using it on our behalf.
Students of Jesus believe He created the world. And all His miracles demonstrate His supremacy. They certainly believe He will return someday with power to change everything. And this is the problem…
We believe He has power, but we do not believe He is using it – or is willing to use it – for our benefit right now.
If students of the Teacher only believe He has authority but is not actively engaged in our lives by using His power to help us, what kind of faith is this?
What kind of faith is it that does not believe He is powerfully working now to change our hearts and lives? Does not believe He is able to change our circumstances. Indeed, does not trust Him to change every aspect of our life we allow Him to touch.
Students of Jesus see walking on water for what it truly is. A sign the One who brought order out of chaos in the beginning of the world, and changed everything He touched while on earth, is creating all things new in and around us even now.
Thanks again, Denny. What an important reminder.
ReplyDeleteJesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Heb 13:8)
Maybe the problem is we have an idea of how things work, and how Jesus works doesn't exactly fit into our understanding. I wonder in what ways our lack of faith in His ability limits what he will do in our lives.
Thanks to the Teacher who doesn't change, and is active and alive and working in our lives!