After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, - P96
25Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake.
26When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It’s a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear.
27But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid."
28"Lord, if it’s you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."
- P96
31Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"
32And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.
33Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."
34When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret.
35And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him
36and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed. - P97
Jesus sends His disciples ahead by boat and goes to pray alone. During thenight, He walks on the water toward them. Peter walks toward Him on thewater but begins to sink when he is afraid, and Jesus saves him. They arrive atGennesaret, where people bring their sick to Jesus, and those who just touchHis cloak are healed. - P97
Jesus directs His disciples to sail to the other side of the lake. While He stays behind, the disciples row against the wind and the waves. Jesus later meets them, walking on the water. They mistake Him for a ghost and are terrified, but He tells them not to be afraid. - P98
There are times in all our lives when we sense our Lord calling us to go somewhere or do something that results in a crisis of faith. Fear overtakes us. We feel helpless and alone. But through the howling winds, we hear a voice calling out, "Do not be afraid." These words are Jesus’ invitation to lay aside our fears and come to Him in faith. As we do, He reaches out and saves us. - P98
Jesus and His disciples land at Gennesaret. As soon as the people recog-nize Jesus, the news of His arrival spreads quickly to the entire region andthe sick come to receive healing. At this point, the narrative says nothingabout Jesus‘ teaching in this area. The emphasis is on His presence andcompassionate power. - P98
When people‘s attention is drawn to Jesus‘ personand character, the word spreads quickly, people come to receive salvation,
and the testimony of Jesus goes forth in power. Teaching is important, butwe must not forget what people really need, which is the loving presenceof Jesus through His Holy Spirit in our lives and churches. For this, thereis no substitute. - P98
Notice that Peter does not try to swim back to the boat. When he begins to sink, hecries out to Jesus for help. Today, as you fast, bring your needs to Him. Before rushingto brainstorm solutions or diving into your work or studies, make time to share yourfears and desires with Jesus-openly, honestly, and with trust.
-Pastor Sam An - P99
Lord Jesus, I know that in my weakness Your great power is displayed. May You be glorified as I courageously step out in faith, seeking to accomplish what so often appears impossible. In Your name I pray, amen. - P99
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