Reflection of the week
This week’s sermon, “Wave-Walking,” continues Jesus’ teachings on discipleship in Matthew’s Gospel. This week Jesus calls us to trust, even when we are afraid. If you’d like, read Matthew 14:22-33 in advance and meditate on what it means to trust God even while walking on stormy waters, a vital discipline, especially during these unpredictable days.
Matthew 14:22-33
Jesus Walks on the Water
Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. And early in the morning he came walking towards them on the lake. But when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’
Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came towards Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’
Service highlights for this Sunday
Jiwon Lee is back on the sanctuary organ and has recorded the “Navy Hymn,” Eternal Father Strong to Save for our closing song. This hymn speaks poetically about God’s power to calm the stormy seas of life.
Also, something for the kids, meaning all of us: a spontaneous video of our staff singers serenading Childtime Preschool kids with Jesus Loves Me.
Grace, Peace, & Health,
Pastor James