Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the lake and coming near the boat, and they were terrified. But he said to them, ‘It is I; do not be afraid.’”
NL Daily Devotion for Friday, February 11, 2022
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
I am sometimes one of those disciples in that wind-tossed boat before Jesus is there. I’m just doing my thing and maybe it’s not going so well. I think I know where I’m going, but I’m plagued by doubts. Fear sits cold in my gut like the water splashing over the prow.
Then Jesus shows up and it’s a whole different kind of fear. Suddenly I have absolutely no idea what’s going on when I was pretty sure I knew what I was doing. I’m called to look at things in a completely different way, step outside my comfort zone, and above all, trust God. And it’s terrifying. I mean, the dude is walking on the water for crying out loud!
But Jesus says, “Do not be afraid,” and reassures me that I am exactly where I need to be. Even if it’s not the right boat, even if it’s not with the right people right now, Jesus is there with me. I can look honestly at my life and ask God where God wants me to be, and I will know that I am never alone.
Which is scarier, when everyday life is challenging or when Jesus shows up?