October 29, 2026

Walking on Water

Jesus called Simon Peter to walk on the water with Him.  What an honor.  But scary.  One of my favorite scenes in the movie The Shack, is when Jesus takes the main character on a walk/run across a lake.  It’s a powerful and humorous moment.  In reality, we are all called.  I talk about that a lot, I know.  Without a call or a purpose how can we function within God’s plan in a meaningful way?  Peter did walk on water.  For a moment.  The moment he had doubts, he began to sink. The greater our faith, once we are called, the greater the blessings and the relationship.

Following Jesus is a crying need from the heart.   It reminds me of my Great Grandmother Sarah McNutt who faithfully and persistently prayed for her children and her grandchildren. She would look deep into my eyes when I was a child, and she would tell me all about Jesus and how much He loved me. Dozens of times throughout my life, I’ve heard the echoes of her words.  It took me back to the wisdom she taught me in her little front yard flower garden.

Jesus did not lose faith in Peter after that water incident. He still gave the Apostles the Great Commission.  And they managed to teach the story of Jesus to the entire world eventually.  He asks us daily to do what He did.  Walk on water.  Heal people.  Feed the poor.  Love the unlovable.  Feed the hungry.  Save the lost.  That is our call and we are to achieve it using the gifts God planted inside us. 

Sometimes I think accepting Jesus into your heart, admitting you can't do life without Him, is a very small beginning. But it's enough. As years pass, the calling takes root. Jesus goes deeper into our hearts, and we understand the call takes everything we've got. His Presence challenges our ego, our tempers, our selfish motives and impure thoughts. As He confronts these behaviors, He leaves in their place peace, forgiveness and a genuine willingness to prefer others.

Jesus loved His disciples.  He made certain they were prepared for His departure, that they knew who He was and what they were called to do. Peter could have spiraled into depression and cynicism. Instead, Jesus inspired him and led him back to his task as a Fisher of men. Never be afraid of your gift and never shy away from your call.  Stand up.  Get out of the boat and walk on the water with Jesus.

Dearest Lord, I long to walk on the water with You.  It might look different for me than it did for Peter.  For me, it will involve writing.  Discipline.  The kind of dedication and determination that overrides any other longing.  Lord, You have given me so many books to write.  You’ve shown me what I could have done if I’d been more committed.  Help me utilize any time that remains and devote my hours, my days, and my gift to You.

Since you excel in so many ways—in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us—I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving.  2 Corinthians 8:7