Bible Verse
“When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were frightened.” – John 6:17
Reflection
The scene depicted in John 6:17 may initially appear as though it is just a narrative about Jesus and His disciples, yet it is profoundly rich with lessons on faith, trust, and divine presence. This verse, within the larger context of John’s Gospel, offers an opportunity for us to pause and consider how Jesus manifests His love and reassurance in the midst of our life’s storms.
Imagine the disciples rowing through the turbulent waters of the Sea of Galilee, likely feeling weary and anxious. The darkness surrounding them resembles the shadows of doubt and uncertainty that we often encounter in our lives. However, it is within this very darkness that Jesus approaches, walking on water—an act defying natural laws. This image serves as a powerful reminder that when we are entrenched in struggles or fear, Jesus’s presence is near, even if we cannot immediately recognize it.
We may all face ‘storms’—times of challenge or moments when we’re uncertain of the path forward. The fear that seized the disciples is similar to our own reactions in such times. But just as Jesus reached them amidst their struggle, He reaches us too, offering His steadfast presence. His approach on the water is symbolic of His ability to transcend and conquer the very things that seem insurmountable to us.
In these moments, the disciples’ fear of the unknown is relatable. Their initial reaction, marked by fear, is human, but it invites us to move from fear to faith. Jesus’s presence on the water asks us to trust beyond the immediate and visible. This scene encourages us to look beyond our immediate fears to see the enduring hope that Jesus embodies. It calls us to trust in His grace, even when we cannot see the path ahead.
Moreover, this passage reminds us of the beauty of perseverance. Life’s challenges, like the waters the disciples battled against, serve not to overwhelm us but to bring us closer to the divine. The resistance we feel as we ‘row’ against life’s currents can turn into an encounter with the divine if we remain open to seeing Jesus walking toward us through the storm.
Closing Thought
In times of uncertainty and fear, may we find comfort in knowing that Jesus walks toward us, offering His peace and presence. As we journey through our personal storms, let us embrace the promise that we are never alone, and with Jesus by our side, fear transforms into faith and hope.