April 28, 2023
“Lord, save me!”
– Simon Peter
Mourning the loss of a loved one can make our lives as tumultuous as the Sea of Galilee with roiling waves, foreboding clouds, and howling winds. We find ourselves struggling to navigate the emotional storms that often erupt with little warning.
One of the most beloved stories in the Bible recounts how Jesus walked on the water.
In his Gospel, St. Matthew said that Jesus told the disciples to take the boat to the other side. Then, He went up the mountain to pray, while the boat was being tossed about by violent winds.
Jesus came toward them, walking on the water “during the fourth watch,” which is between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. — a significant time in the Bible, when God is said to be the most responsive to our pleas for help.
“When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified. ‘It is a ghost,’ they said, and cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them: ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’”
“Peter said, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ And Jesus said, ‘Come.’ 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, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’”
Biblical scholars note that as long as Peter kept his focus on Jesus, he could do the impossible and walk on water. But once he focused on the raging sea, he panicked and sank. The lesson is clear. We should focus on Jesus rather than the turmoil in our lives. It’s also worth noting that as soon as Peter cried out, Jesus “immediately” was there to save him with an outstretched hand.
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When our emotions become like a storm at sea, don’t be afraid to cry out, “Lord, save me!”