Have No Fear!

Today's gospel is one of several incidents when Jesus calmed a storm on the Sea of Galilee. It has several extra nuances, because it tells us about Jesus going aside to pray, how he walked on the water, and how poor Peter fared when he attempted to do the same. It is a gospel that has much to teach us.

Parable
I'm sure we all have seen a sheet of paper on the wall near a phone, with emergency numbers on it. There's the fire brigade, the ambulance, the doctor, etc. It is useful, and very advisable to have these at hand. I have never seen God's name on this list! And yet, he is often called on in emergencies only. The apostles were lucky that he arrived on time.

Teaching
The opening of the gospel is quite touching. It speaks about Jesus sending his apostles away, where they could have a rest, while he would stay back and deal with the crowds. He then went off to be alone, to spend some time with the Father. He showed wonderful concern and sensitivity for others, but he also had to have time for himself. Many good people fail in this second part. I can become so busy with the work of the Lord, that I haven't time for the Lord of the work. There is something very gentle and impressive about these opening comments. It gives us a glimpse of just how beautiful a person he must have been for those who walked with him in life. That is the same for us today.

Peter was always ready for a 'dare'. If Jesus could walk on water, then Peter was ready to try that too. It was as if he were saying, 'Lord, could I have the freedom over death that you have?' Jesus invited him to come on, and try it. Peter did that, and, when he kept his eyes fixed on Jesus, he succeeded. Once he took his eyes off Jesus, however, and became conscious of the wind and the waves, he lost his nerve and began to sink.

Peter had a spontaneity that often got him in trouble. He certainly was the only one in that boat who would dare step over the side! Jesus must have smiled at Peter, while being pleased with the trust he had in Jesus. Human as he was, he lost his nerve, and he got quite a fright. However, he knew where to call for help and, once again, he was not disappointed. He still had a lot to learn, but he was willing to have a go, and to learn, even through his mistakes. Experience is a good school, although the fees are often very high!

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