Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus.
But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened.

Matthew 14:29-30

Matthew 14:22-36

Reflection

The disciples go ahead of Jesus on a boat while he goes to pray in private. Later, when the wind is whipping on the sea, Jesus comes walking towards them on the water, and they are afraid. Peter asks Jesus to command him to come on the water to him, and he begins to walk. However, Peter becomes afraid and immediately begins to sink, when Jesus saves him.

Peter loses faith quite quickly after he begins walking towards Jesus on the water. As a result, he sinks and needs Jesus to literally save his life. The lack of faith is not only that, but a failure to trust in God’s grace. Peter had the necessary grace from Jesus to walk on the water, but he did not totally trust.

We, too, do not always totally trust Jesus. He gives us the grace we need for various activities in life, but yet at times, we still fail in trusting him totally, relying instead on our own power, which is not enough. Reflect on how Jesus gives you all the grace you need in everyday life – do you rely on him or yourself?

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Saint of the Day

St. Peter Julian Eymard: 1811 – 1868

“Anybody may speak to our Lord. Is he not there for everybody? Does he not tell us, ‘Come you all to me?’” St. Peter Julian Eymard